Historic former cinema could be transformed as housing plan stalls

A historic former cinema in the shadow of Anfield could be given a new lease of life after residential plans fell through.

Almost a century ago, The Ritz Cinema opened at the junction of Utting Avenue and Bidston Road at a cost of £20,000. After initially being sold in 1958, the location became a Taskers DIY store and went on to become a sports and angling shop.

Now, after plans to redevelop the building for residential use were rejected by Liverpool Council, fresh proposals could lead to it being converted into a new bar and restaurant.

READ MORE: Boy on day out at Formby Beach asked 'are you laughing at me?' before being stabbed

READ MORE: Giovinco dies in first race at Ladies Day at Aintree

A design and access statement submitted to the local authority’s planning department by R&R Design on behalf of applicant EW Developments said the site is located within a predominantly mixed-use commercial and residential area in Anfield and a short walk from Anfield Stadium. It added: “Retail, bars and open outdoor spaces are within close proximity to the proposed bar and restaurant, with strong public transport links to surrounding areas and beyond.

“Given its nearness to Anfield Stadium, it is intended that this development will, in part, cater for the football tourism market and other events hosted within the stadium.”

The restaurant - if approved - would serve more than 300 diners and seeks to retain the existing stone banding and blockwork. A new aluminium shopfront is proposed, providing a second entrance into the bar area.

An existing opening in the restaurant area is to be blocked up and rendered to match. All existing render is to be repainted, along with existing blockwork.

Additional space will be provided for bicycle storage. The document said: “The client looks forward to working positively with Liverpool City Council to deliver a high-quality development.”

When the building first opened in 1929, the first films to be screened at the cinema included The Joker, Sailors Don't Care and The Betrayal, accompanied by a full orchestra. With 1,200 red plush seats, the cinema also boasted of shops on either side of the entrance.

While it initially proved popular with audiences, the Ritz suffered from competition from other cinemas and was restricted to the later showing of leading films. Matinees ceased at the cinema in the early-1950s which contributed to its closure.

The final film to be screened at the cinema on June 30, 1957 was a double bill of “The Raid” starring Van Heflin and Anne Bancroft, and “Bomber Moon” with George Montgomery.

A date has yet to be confirmed for the new plans to be considered by Liverpool Council.

Don't miss the biggest and breaking stories by signing up to the Echo Daily newsletter here