Liverpool City Council has installed metal sheeting on the doors of the historic former ABC Cinema on Lime Street to enhance security. The move comes as the council continues its search for a viable tenant for the Grade II-listed building, which has been vacant for over two decades and is a prominent landmark for visitors arriving at Lime Street station.
Key Takeaways
- Security has been increased at the former ABC Cinema on Lime Street with the addition of metal sheeting.
- The Grade II-listed Art Deco building, owned by the city council, has been empty since 1998.
- The council is actively seeking a new tenant and is in preliminary discussions with a potential buyer.
- The building's dilapidated state has drawn public criticism, with some calling it a "shameful" first impression of Liverpool.
A Landmark Building in Decline
The former ABC Cinema is one of the first buildings many visitors see when they exit Lime Street station. Its prominent location makes its current condition a subject of public concern. The building, which has stood empty since 1998, shows visible signs of neglect, including water-stained walls and vegetation growing from its roof.
Over the years, the vacant property has been subjected to vandalism and arson attempts. In June 2023, a fire broke out on the third and fourth floors, requiring a significant emergency service response and drawing further attention to its vulnerability.
Building Timeline
- 1931: Opens as The Forum cinema.
- 1971: Acquired by ABC Cinemas.
- 1986: Renamed The Cannon.
- 1998: Closes its doors permanently.
- 2016: Plans for a music venue are approved but not implemented.
Council Action and Future Prospects
In response to ongoing security concerns, Liverpool City Council has taken steps to secure the entrances. A spokesperson for the council confirmed the recent measures are intended to protect the asset while a new use is found.
"We have recently taken steps to harden the security at this important Grade II-listed asset as we continue to seek interest in finding a viable tenant for the building," a Liverpool City Council spokesperson stated.
The council has also confirmed that a potential buyer has expressed interest in the property. Cabinet member for growth and economy, Cllr Nick Small, described the talks as being in the "very early stages." He emphasized the building's importance as an "iconic gateway building" for the city.
The future of the ABC Cinema is considered a crucial component of the wider Upper Central Masterplan, a major regeneration scheme aimed at transforming the area around the Knowledge Quarter and Lime Street.
Public Reaction to the Building's State
The installation of metal sheeting has renewed public discussion about the building's appearance. On social media, residents and visitors have expressed disappointment, arguing that the boarded-up facade creates a poor welcome for people arriving in Liverpool.
One user, identified as Liverpool1207, commented: "What a welcome. Now with added tin. Shameful." Another, Phil Harrison, noted its prominent location, stating it is "one of the first sights to greet visitors as they arrive in Liverpool."
A History of Unfulfilled Plans
This is not the first time the building's future has been debated. In 2016, nearly two decades after its closure, plans were approved to convert the cinema into a modern music and entertainment venue. However, these plans never came to fruition, and the building remained empty. By 2019, the council was considering a "number of options" for the site as part of its long-term development strategy for the city centre.
The Challenge of Heritage Regeneration
The situation with the ABC Cinema highlights a common challenge for cities: balancing the preservation of historic, listed buildings with the need for modern development and economic viability. The six-storey Art Deco structure is an architectural asset, but its size and condition require significant investment to be brought back into use.
As the council engages with potential tenants, any future project will need to respect the building's Grade II-listed status while creating a sustainable commercial or cultural function. The successful regeneration of the site, along with other nearby properties like the former 051 nightclub, is seen as vital for the revitalisation of the entire Lime Street area.
For now, the secured building stands as a silent monument, awaiting a new chapter in its long history. The outcome of the council's search for a tenant will be closely watched by those who hope to see the landmark restored to its former glory.