We are planning the construction of a second screen, which will be vital for the long-term survival of ActOne Cinema. A second screen will broaden our community appeal while ensuring our financial viability, and will fulfil our original plan to build a cinema with two screens. We want to provide a best-in-class cinematic experience for our customers, with a wider range of films and events on offer – including but not limited to: exhibiting the work of local filmmakers, more independent films and festivals, and even comedy and music events.

What we'll deliver:

• Construct a new cinema space
• Install a new cinema screen
• Fit 60 new seats
• Upgrade our technical equipment to give you the best viewing experience
• Create a brand new foyer to welcome you to the two-screen cinema

Why it's a great idea:

The benefits of a second screen are: • Increased revenue streams • Financial security for the cinema • Increased variety of choice for our customers • Broader options for community events Our research into local demographics indicate that there are approximately a hundred thousand people within a walk, short cycle, or bus ride of ActOne, and this number is projected to rise steadily in the next three decades. The three local wards have a significantly younger age profile than the national picture, and statistics from the British Film Institute indicate that this is the age group most likely to attend the cinema. As we’ve seen in our first year, an independent cinema can catalyse local economic regeneration and the retention of the local population by making an area more attractive to live in. Our beneficiaries will be the residents of Acton, Acton’s local businesses and the wider community.

Steps to get it done:

• Get planning application approved and building control in place
• Finalise appointment of construction and technical teams
• Source seats
• Prepare site - move lights and take down temporary wall
• Begin construction
• Install air conditioning
• Finalise construction and install seats
• Fit projector and tech
• Prepare for opening with publicity and marketing campaign

We are very fortunate to be partnered with the Acton BID (Business Improvement District) in this part of our project. Support from the BID will fund the technical aspects of the second screen – specifically the sound system and projector.