Bognor councillors urged to buy the Picturedrome

That's the message which has come through loud and clear from the readers of the Bognor Regis Observer.

They have responded to a request by town councillors for their views about the town's cinema with an unmistakeable message of support.

All received so far said the town council should spend just over three-quarters of a million pounds buying Bognor Pier Company which owns the Grade II listed building on Canada Grove.

Typical of the responses was the one from the Archer family of Shelley Road. Chloe Archer said: "We as a family support the Picturedrome and frequent it.

"Its loss will have a severe impact upon the scarce amenities in the town and will be another nail in the coffin for Bognor.

"We would accept a rise in council tax to maintain it as we did with the Regis Centre. Each are valuable social hubs for all age groups."

David Oliver, of Victoria Drive, said: "I am now in my seventies. One of my earliest childhood memories is of my first visit to a cinema '“ the Picturedrome.

"I and my family continue to be regular visitors to the cinema, which we feel is hugely superior and atmospheric when compared to its more modern competitors in Chichester.

"It would be a tragedy if this iconic and historic facility was allowed to close and I fully support the proposal the council should purchase the building in the manner suggested."

Linden Road resident David Day said the purchase of the cinema would produce a visible benefit for the town.

"Bognor Pier Company should be swallowed up and digested so thoroughly it is never remembered," he said.

There is still time to let the town council's members know if you think they should buy the Picturedrome.

Send your comments by May 20 to [email protected] or write to us at Bognor Regis Observer, 14 Station Road, Bognor Regis PO21 1QE.