Plans to build 44 bedsits in a former Wetherspoon's in Redfield have been withdrawn by the developer.
Earlier this year developers Landrose, which bought St George's Hall in Redfield from Wetherspoon's, submitted a planning application to build 44 bedsits in the building - but that application has now been withdrawn from the council's planning portal. Landrose was approached to try and find out what this means for the building.
Local residents have been campaigning for the Church Road building to be put into community use and for the hidden cinema to be restored. Rachel Groom, one of the members of the campaign to save the cinema, said: "This is just another step in a long road, it is certainly not a victory.
Read more: Wetherspoon's pub and former cinema could be turned into 44 bedsits
"It is going to be a long journey to save the cinema and we have reached out to the developer to try and find out what this means."
The now withdrawn planning application would have seen the Wetherspoon's branch turned into 44 bedsits across four stories. The HMO was also going to have a shop and a gym but tenants would have to share a communal kitchen, dining room and living room area. There would be 14 shared living spaces altogether forming a unit with the bedsits.
The group of residents' proposals for the historic building gained cross-party support from local councillors and their petition has gathered over 9,000 signatures. Bristol comedian Stephen Merchant was among those who has spoken out about why the cinema should be saved.
Campaign member Paul Burke wrote on Facebook: "As many of you have been informed in email by BCC, Landrose have withdrawn the planning application today.
"I had a lengthy phone call with the owner at the end of last week where we agreed and disagreed about all sorts of things relating to the building and the campaign. Where we landed was that a sensible next step is a proper agenda for a meeting and to really go through realistic compromises to see if there is an outcome that works for everyone.
"To all of you who objected, shared posts and have spoken positively about what the building has the possibility to be, you should be absolutely sure you have been heard! More to come soon."
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