Plans revealed for new 'boutique' cinema and housing at Bridgnorth's historic Majestic site
The future of Bridgnorth’s historic Majestic Cinema has been put into the spotlight following an official statement from its owners, who have outlined proposals for a major redevelopment of the site.
Sunil Suri, Director of REEL Cinemas, has confirmed that the independent, family-owned chain is in discussions with Shropshire Council over plans to replace the current building with a new two-screen "boutique" cinema, funded alongside a residential housing development on the plot.
The Majestic first opened its doors nearly 90 years ago in 1937, and REEL has operated the venue for the past 23 years. Acknowledging recent local speculation regarding the site, Mr Suri insisted that the company remains fully committed to retaining a cinematic presence in the town for the long term.
"Like many historic cinemas, the Majestic was built for a different era," Mr Suri said. "If cinema is to remain part of Bridgnorth's future, it needs to evolve.
"The best way to do that is with a new two-screen boutique cinema on this site, one that honours the Majestic's history while creating a venue suited to how people enjoy films today."
Addressing potential community concerns over the inclusion of housing on the site, Mr Suri admitted that the redevelopment requires a mixed-use approach to be financially viable.
"If we could put a cinema here on its own, we would," he explained. "The truth is the numbers do not work that way, and the housing element is what enables the new cinema to happen."
The local team at the Majestic boasts a collective service of over a century, and the venue holds deep sentimental value for generations of Bridgnorth families. REEL, which operates 16 sites across England, noted that the Shropshire town holds a "special part" in the company's story.
The site was included in Shropshire Council’s public consultation process last autumn at the operator's request to ensure early conversations could happen openly. Mr Suri reassured residents that they will have further opportunities to comment, ask questions, and share their views as formal plans continue to develop.
