In a bid to stem losses, and meet the need for a cinema in St. Albans, the Council's Cabinet this week made the decision to invest over £400,000 in redeveloping the Maltings Arts Theatre so that films can be shown there 7 days a week.

The £400,000+ outlay will be used to purchase a 3D digital projection system, install sound equipment, create new seating, and make alterations to the cafe and box office areas of the theatre.

The theatre will continue to be available for occasional live performances, but keeping the theatre dedicated solely to such events has become economically unviable.

Council leader, Ronald Donald, justified the decision on the basis that the initial investment should be recouped within four years, and citing a number of local planning studies which showed people wanted to be able to see films in the District.

Whilst St. Albans certainly does need a cinema, the fact that the cinema will not be eligible to show new releases will no doubt disappoint people, particularly teenagers and young adults who are likely to want to see the most popular current blockbusters. 

Certainly some local people will feel that this investment not only fails to address the City's cinema needs, but also is shortsighted given that the former Odean theatre on London Road, the Odyssey, is set to open in around two years time, showing similar films in a much nicer environment.

What are your feelings? Will the renewed Malting's Theatre meet the needs of St. Albans cinema goers? Is the Council's investment wise during these times of austerity, and with the Odyssey set to open before that investment has been recouped?