Caspar Lmao
Member
- Joined
- Jun 20, 2024
- Messages
- 5
- Reaction score
- 7
Historical Background:
The site originally housed the Ritz Cinema, which opened in 1937 as the largest cinema in Kent, boasting 2,300 seats and Art Deco architecture. The cinema operated until its closure on May 20, 1972, after which the building was converted into a bingo hall under various operators, including EMI, Star, Coral, and eventually Gala Bingo. In 1998, while under consideration for listed status, the building was destroyed by a major fire. A new, purpose-built Gala Bingo hall was constructed on the site in the early 2000s, which rebranded to Buzz Bingo in 2018.
Closure and Current Status:
In 2020, Buzz Bingo announced the permanent closure of 26 halls across the UK, including the Chatham location, due to financial challenges exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. Since its closure, the building has remained unused, contributing to its derelict status.
Redevelopment Plans:
The site has been acquired by Donard Living, in partnership with Zetland Capital, with plans to redevelop it into residential housing. Proposals include constructing approximately 230 homes, along with commercial space and a courtyard podium garden featuring a children’s play area. A public consultation was launched to engage with the community regarding these plans. Additionally, Medway Council is considering the sale of the adjacent Union Place car park to facilitate the redevelopment.
Community Impact
The redevelopment of the former Buzz Bingo site is part of broader regeneration efforts in Chatham, aiming to revitalize the area and provide much-needed housing. While some community members have expressed a desire for amenities such as supermarkets, cinemas, or indoor markets, the current proposal focuses on residential development.
Current Status:
As of January 2025, the project is progressing through planning and consultation phases, with construction anticipated to commence following necessary approvals.
Attachments:
The site originally housed the Ritz Cinema, which opened in 1937 as the largest cinema in Kent, boasting 2,300 seats and Art Deco architecture. The cinema operated until its closure on May 20, 1972, after which the building was converted into a bingo hall under various operators, including EMI, Star, Coral, and eventually Gala Bingo. In 1998, while under consideration for listed status, the building was destroyed by a major fire. A new, purpose-built Gala Bingo hall was constructed on the site in the early 2000s, which rebranded to Buzz Bingo in 2018.
Closure and Current Status:
In 2020, Buzz Bingo announced the permanent closure of 26 halls across the UK, including the Chatham location, due to financial challenges exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. Since its closure, the building has remained unused, contributing to its derelict status.
Redevelopment Plans:
The site has been acquired by Donard Living, in partnership with Zetland Capital, with plans to redevelop it into residential housing. Proposals include constructing approximately 230 homes, along with commercial space and a courtyard podium garden featuring a children’s play area. A public consultation was launched to engage with the community regarding these plans. Additionally, Medway Council is considering the sale of the adjacent Union Place car park to facilitate the redevelopment.
Community Impact
The redevelopment of the former Buzz Bingo site is part of broader regeneration efforts in Chatham, aiming to revitalize the area and provide much-needed housing. While some community members have expressed a desire for amenities such as supermarkets, cinemas, or indoor markets, the current proposal focuses on residential development.
Current Status:
As of January 2025, the project is progressing through planning and consultation phases, with construction anticipated to commence following necessary approvals.
Attachments:
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