Wellington Orbit Cinema

In Wellington, in the Telford conurbation in Shropshire, the Clifton Cinema (see separate entry) closed in December 1988. In the 1990’s it became a Dunelm store prior to finally closing its doors in 2012.

In 2013, with the building standing empty, The Clifton Community Arts Centre (CCAC) was established with the aim of raising awareness and funds with the intention of re-opening the Clifton Cinema for the benefit of the community. Unfortunately, despite many attempts by CCAC to purchase or lease the building from Dunelm, they were unable to do so.

Eventually, following a public consultation in October 2017, a developer confirmed that terms had been agreed with Dunelm and they were purchasing the site for residential and retail redevelopment.

Meanwhile, in August 2016, HSBC Bank had closed their branch on Station Road. After lengthy negotiations, a lease was signed and Wellington Orbit, a cinema, arts and community centre, came into being. (Strictly speaking, “Wellington Orbit” is the trading name of The Clifton Community Arts Centre Ltd., a Community Benefit Society.)

Work started in 2018. The cafe/bar opened in May 2019, followed swiftly by the cinema, which opened on Saturday 29th June 2019 with the animated feature “The Secret Life of Pets 2”.

The next phase of this project will see rooms on the upper floors and in the basement being developed for use by community groups.

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