Britain's First Multiplex Cinema Fails to Gain Listed Status

An effort to preserve Britain's inaugural multiplex cinema, The Point in Milton Keynes, through listed status has been unsuccessful. Opened in 1985 and closing its doors permanently in 2015, the cinema was considered historically significant by heritage groups like the Twentieth Century Society and the Cinema Theatre Association.

However, Historic England determined the multiplex concept originated in the United States, therefore deeming it not of national significance to Britain. This decision allows for the development of approximately 487 flats across four buildings, some rising up to 21 storeys, on the site where The Point once stood. A planning appeal had previously granted developer Galliard Holdings Ltd permission for this project.

Local council leader Pete Marland expressed bewilderment at the decision, arguing that its foreign origin does not diminish its importance in saving cinema attendance in the UK. He suggested a potential bias against post-war architecture in such rulings. Historic England's current guidance prevents The Point from being listed for an additional five years, while campaigners continue to advocate for preserving the iconic pyramid structure.