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People
in Northampton will this weekend have their first proper chance
to look inside the former Cannon Cinema, seven years after the last
film was shown.
The
Jesus Army bought the 1930s cinema for £1 million in 2000
with the intention of converting it into a worship centre.
Former
glory. |
Most
of the interior of the Grade II listed building is still run-down.
Art deco fittings and decoration need urgent renovation. The building
- which once hosted a Beatles concert - is well past its former
glory.
The
Jesus Army say they will spend another £2 million doing up
the building.
The
new look centre. |
Their
plans include a 'one-stop shop for worship, friendship and care'.
There will be facilities for homeless people, training rooms, conference
space, a cafe and a worship centre.
They
are working with English Heritage to make sure art deco features
are retained and restored.
Building
work is due to start around August and will take up to 12 months.
John
Campbell. |
John
Campbell from the Jesus Army said: "The centre is going to
be aimed at providing help for a wide range of people without any
precondition. Anyone is welcome. The aim is not just to do things
like showers and meals but to do the kind of training which people
need: job applications, literacy, numeracy, money skills and so
on."
Members
of the public can view the plans, and the building, on Saturday
morning and Sunday afternoon.
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