Lomnice nad Popelkou will transform the outdated cinema into a multipurpose center

Lomnice nad Popelkou - Lomnice nad Popelkou in the Czech Paradise will convert the outdated cinema into a multifunctional center. Work is set to begin this year and will last approximately a year. According to estimates, the modernization will cost 30 million crowns. The mayor of the city, Josef Šimek (Independent candidates), informed ČTK.

The cinema, built in 1953, is currently operating in a limited capacity; due to inadequate projection technology, attendance at screenings is very low. "Any newer film that is released on a data carrier can be broadcasted with a six-month delay, which, of course, no one attends anymore," the mayor stated.

The city wants to maintain the cinema, which is why its digitization is part of the project. "After the reconstruction, we expect the same operations as before; of course, thanks to the digitization, the number of screening days will increase," Šimek said. However, the building will not only serve for screenings but will gain broader use. "Smaller theater performances or minor concerts can be held there, which we currently do not have space for. The hall's capacity will be reduced from the current 200 seats to 100, creating an ideal club space," the mayor added.

Not only the interior needs modernization, but the building itself is in unsatisfactory condition. It is built on fill, and due to uneven subsidence of the foundation, cracks and seams are forming. The roof covering also needs to be replaced, and the trusses need to be strengthened. The windows are at the end of their lifespan. Reconstruction is expected to start this September and will last about a year. "We expect to open in September or October of next year," Šimek said. The actual cost will come from the tender processes currently being prepared. "We estimate that the building reconstruction will cost 20 million crowns and the new technology will cost ten million crowns," the mayor added. The city will finance the modernization through a loan it will take out this year. It will repay it over ten years from the revenues of the municipal forests.