Listed former cinema building in Swansea could be turned into apartment block

An historic listed former cinema building looks set to take on a new lease of life with plans lodged to transform it into a mixed scheme of commercial units and 30 residential apartments. Cardiff-based Easy Living Limited is behind the plans to transform the Grade II-listed former Castle Cinema along Worcester Place in Swansea, which has been the home of Laserzone for decades.

Planning documents state that change is needed as the building has fallen into a "dilapidated state" and has been included on a list of "at-risk" listed buildings. Castle Cinema was opened in Worcester Place on December 14, 1913, by Castle and Central Cinemas Ltd. It was modernised in 1967 and new owner Welmore Cinema Co Ltd took over in the 1970s.

It was closed in 1983 and took on new life the same year as Film Centa. It then closed on October 31, 1991, and is now in use as Laserzone. Get Swansea stories straight to your inbox with our newsletter.

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Design images have been shared which show how the former Castle Cinema building in Swansea could look if planning permission for redevelopment is approved (Prime Architecture)

Another angle of the planning design for the Castle Cinema building in Swansea city centre (Prime Architecture)

The redeveloped building would keep its iconic Castle Cinema signage (Prime Architecture)

Laserzone is a high-tech live action laser game played in a multi-level themed arena and has been a popular spot for children's parties for generations. We reported in June 2021 that the building had been placed up for sale in what was described at the time in a listing by BP2 Land and Property Consultants as a "unique opportunity to redevelop" the Grade II-listed building. The listing stated: "The property is currently being used as a laser games leisure facility, however vacant possession can be provided once terms are agreed." You can read more about that by clicking here.

Planning documents submitted to the council state: "The site is currently occupied as a laser gun combat game and assault course called the Laserzone. The building has developed dilapidated over a number of years and now requires investment to ensure its longevity and is brought into an exciting use. The building has been included in the register of listed buildings at 'risk' and without a new and viable use the building will not be restored and preserved for the future." Swansea Council's planning committee will now consider the bid.

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