Galway City Council looking to lease former €8m cinema free of charge
Galway City Coucil have invited proposals for the redevelopment of beloved venue, Pálás.
The arthouse cinema and cultural space, which opened in 2017 following a lengthy construction period, announced on social media late last year that they will be closing their doors for the last time at the end of February 2025.
The cinema, located in the Galway docks, took to social media to confirm the closure, saying that while they worked hard to avoid the inevitable, they can no longer continue trading due to the rising costs and competition. Galway City Coucil have invited proposals for the redevelopment of beloved venue, Pálás. Pic: Facebook
'It is with deep regret that after seven years of trading, Pálás will be closing its doors at the end of February 2025,' the cinema wrote. 'To many, Pálás is more than just a cinema and we have loved being a part of the community.
'We are so proud of our incredible team, the partnerships we have forged and the loyal audience we have fostered for Irish, arthouse and independent films in Galway.
'We have worked hard to avoid this outcome but the stark reality is rising costs and the oversaturation of the Galway cinema market have made continued trading unviable, and we have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the business.' The arthouse cinema and cultural space, which opened in 2017 following a lengthy construction period, announced on social media late last year that they will be closing their doors for the last time at the end of February 2025. Pic:'We intend to provide the best possible filmgoing experience until we close our doors and we look forward to welcoming audiences until then. We are forever grateful for all of the love and support you have shown us over the last seven years. Go raibh maith agaibh as bhur dtacaíocht leanúnach ar feadh na mblianta.'
The cinema operated under element Pictures, the group that also operate the Lighthouse Cinema in Dublin 7.
Located on Merchants Road, the now council-owned building currently accommodates 322 seats across its three screens, while also including a box office, café and bar space and office space.
Galway City Council have said that the successful redevelopment applicant will have full operational use of the facility on a long-term lease without charge, with no further financial support provided.
An independent commercial review provided three suggested options for the redevelopment of the building: Re-opening of the property as a cultural space featuring one operational cinema with other areas repurposed for community and cultural use.
Re-purposing of the property to become more tourism focused with a focus on cultural tourism.
Re-configuration of the property to operate as a mix of commercial space generating annual rents combined with allocation of space for community use
The Council also says the expression of interest is not limited to these suggestions and invited those looking to apply to share any additional ideas.
The property will be available to view on June 18, with interested parties invited to submit their proposals in advance.
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