Recommendations to build a multiplex cinema in the Nowra CBD have been hit with fierce criticism from the owners of the region’s iconic Roxy Theatre.
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Shoalhaven City Council put its review of Nowra-Bomaderry Retail Hierarchy on exhibition late last year, which outlines recommendations to improve the liveability and economic capacity of the region.
Independent consultants David Broyd Consulting Services and Urbacity undertook the review on council’s behalf, and provided a wide range of suggested strategic directions and recommendations, including the construction of a multiplex cinema in the Nowra CBD, as well as a Discount Department Store (DDS).
“These developments would encourage the further transition of the CBD as a social destination and a place to visit and not just a needs-based destination or service centre,” the report read.
“Council should review its three key land holdings in Nowra CBD to facilitate crucial new development opportunities which will contribute to the rejuvenation of the Nowra CBD – this should include the promotion and facilitation of a DDS and modern cinema complex.”
The report stated Nowra needed to “substantially upgrade its cinema offer in terms of scale and quality”, stating the Roxy Theatre presentation was “not ideal”.
“The existing facility has adapted to an expanded format in a building that was not designed for such an outcome and so in comparison to similar facilities in the wider region its quality and presentation is not ideal,” the report read.
“However, the nature of cinema operations is mostly respectful of existing facilities and so this would largely prevent Nowra from upgrading or developing a modern facility on a new site in the CBD as a component of a wider food and entertainment story.”
Owners, managers and staff of the Roxy Theatre have hit back at the report with a petition, saying a new cinema could run the family-owned business into the ground.
“This proposed development of a second cinema complex within the Shoalhaven threatens to drive out the family-owned Roxy Theatre, who have dedicated themselves to serving the best movie titles to the local area since 1975,” the petition read.
“If The Roxy Theatre goes out of business to a new multiplex, the building will become vacant and most-likely dilapidated from neglect over time - The Roxy Theatre will cease to exist.”
Owners and staff of the Roxy said council should consider other forms of recreation to drive growth in the region.
“If the council believe that an increase in cinema attendance is the only way local patronage can be enhanced, let us work together to create the best possible expansions to the existing cinema organisation,” the petition read.
“Destroying a local business and rebuilding another in their own image with advice from out-of-town consultants is absolutely not how a council should manage its local area.”
While council has not formally endorsed any of the report’s findings or recommendations it has broadly considered their implications and identified several recommendations that could be implemented as high, medium and low priorities.
The community has been encouraged to give feedback on the report. After considering submissions received during the exhibition period, council will determine what steps or actions should be taken next, their priority and how they should be implemented. Submissions will be open until February 8.
To sign the Roxy’s petition, click here.