Picturehouse Cinema Delay Remains Unexplained

Cinema group say 'discussions' with landlord continue

Picturehouse Cinema says it is still committed to opening in Chiswick despite the delays in the project.

The company received planning permission in 2014 and had hoped to open in January 2015.

The cinema company admitted nearly a year ago that it was taking longer than originally envisaged and said it was still working on obtaining permission from the landlord to carry out the works.

Meanwhile local people have complained to chiswickw4.com about the vacant building (not the Rambert Ballet one) which they say has been left to "run down". Speculation has grown recently that it may be developed for residential use.

But Picturehouse said; "We are doing everything within our power to start works. Talks are ongoing. We really want to open in Chiswick!"

According to the original planning application lodged with Hounslow Council there were two owners of the site, Ballet Rambert, and Lochstill Ltd. The latter's parent company is London and Bath Estates, and its director is Mr. Kim Gottlieb who was associated with the Octopus project at Chiswick Roundabout.

Mr. Gottlieb was unavailable for comment when chiswickw4.com contacted his office. Four months ago when we asked him why the work was not progressing he said he did not know but he was still in discussions with the cinema group.

July 24, 2015