Save Our Soul – The Electric Cinema remains exposed

Buildings define the character of a city. 

Whilst the Birmingham budget was being debated yesterday, notification came through that Historic England would not list the Electric Cinema on Station Street. 

Known to be the oldest cinema in the UK, this beautiful art deco building is unique, and one of the few buildings that would be recognisable as a Birmingham landmark. Recent plans to demolish it and build a high-rise tower led to a public outcry, and the establishment of the “Save Station Street” grassroots campaign group. 

Cllr Roger Harmer remarked “This is a disappointing decision and leaves the area at risk of the wrecking ball. 

“An identikit structure can go anywhere in the city, it should not trample the remaining bits of heritage we have.”

“Sadly, this speaks to the lack of vision in this city for arts, culture and heritage. 

“A few years ago, we saw the decommissioning of the Horsefair Mosaic; a unique piece of art at Holloway Circus depicting the historical roots of the city. It should have been preserved and treasured. Instead, it was left to rot like so many council owned buildings.

“The damage caused by Birmingham Labour, through failing services, huge budget cuts and price hikes mean that big concerns such as the state of our arts and heritage are not getting a look in, yet our culture scene is really under threat.”

“Yesterday, we unveiled plans in our budget amendment to develop a tax on hotel rooms that could raise valuable funds for our beleaguered culture scene. We will continue to campaign for the tourist tax so that our local heritage can be enjoyed into the future. Sadly, it’s too late for the Horsefair Mosaic, but there’s still time to Save Station Street.”