Campaigners urge DCMS to protect Britain’s oldest cinema

Campaigners are appealing against a decision not to grant listed status to a cinema in Birmingham said to be the oldest working venue in Britain.

The Express reports that campaigners want The Electric in Station Street, Birmingham – which closed last year – to be listed to protect it amid fears it could be affected by nearby redevelopment plans.

However, an application was rejected by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England, which said the building didn’t meet the necessary criteria because the surviving building is “largely the product of refurbishment in the early 2000s”.

The campaign Save Station Street is now appealing the decision, claiming there are “significant flaws” in Historic England’s report, including a failure to fully recognise its national importance and historic links to playwright George Bernard Shaw, who was a regular customer.

DCMS has confirmed it has received an appeal to review the original decision.

A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: “The decision taken by Historic England, the government’s advisor on heritage, not to list The Electric cinema means the council will need to work with the owner of the building to find a new purpose for the site that will still contribute positively to the future of the city and wider region.

“The council will give every regard to the cultural significance that the site has with the former Electric cinema, including exploring a local listing.”