A cinema and theatre complex that was gutted by fire will soon reopen following an extensive refurbishment.
The Windmill Entertainment Centre in Littlehampton will be back in business from April 17 after the blaze which destroyed the building’s neighbour Harvester in August.
Repairs included the restoration of the roof and boiler room, asbestos removal from the ceiling and electrical panels being replaced.
A new studio floor has also been installed along with a replacement carpet for the auditorium and a new skylight. The exterior of the centre was also repainted.
The first production to welcome customers back will be a rendition of the 1950s musical, The Pajama Game performed by LPOS (formerly known as Littlehampton Players Operatic Society).
Freedom Leisure, which manages the facility in partnership with Arun District Council, said it was happy to be reopening the centre after the extensive period of repair and refurbishment.
Matt Williams, general manager at Freedom Leisure, said: “Following months of work we are proud to welcome back this beloved venue to the heart of the community. As a hub for residents and societies alike, we have eagerly awaited the Windmill Entertainment Centre to resume its role as a vibrant space for gatherings, events, and performances.
"We are delighted to throw open our doors once again and extend a warm invitation to the entire community. The Windmill has been a cornerstone of community life and we cannot wait to see it bustling with activity once more. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our patrons for their patience and support throughout this process.”
Councillor Carol Birch, chairman of the housing and wellbeing committee at Arun District Council, said: “We are delighted that the Windmill will reopen this spring with the production of ‘The Pajama Game’ by LPOS, which I’m sure will be fantastic. The team who run the centre are very much looking forward to welcoming back all hirers of the facility and providing entertainment in this much-loved venue. So please come along and support the Windmill.”
The Windmill Cinema is set to begin screenings from July 1. Film showings will continue at Littlehampton Town Council’s Millennium Chamber, along with other venues.
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