CAMPAIGNERS fighting to save a historic cinema in Ringwood have been given a real chance to take over ownership of the building.

The building's current owner, developer U+I Group, has told the Save the Regal campaign members they would seriously consider selling the building to them.

It followed news that the developer was unable to purchase further land, in their bid to develop the site into shops.

The campaign's chairman Mike Tuck said: "We are now in a position to seriously consider our next steps.

"The most important step is to complete a full feasibility study, including relevant building surveys and business planning, to check the viability of the creation and operation of the Ringwood Regal multi-function entertainment facility in the Market Place.

"From the work already carried out we are already quite confident of the viability of this project.

"The cost of this is estimated at £15,000. So this is our first target."

A site has been set up to crowd-fund as much cash as possible from members of the public and local businesses, which is set to go live on Thursday (OCT 27).

"If we reach our goal of £5,000 through this route, the Heritage Lottery Fund will also consider matching these donations, so we ask our supporters to be generous," Mr Tuck added.

"We have also approached the Architectural Heritage Fund, who have said we may be eligible for development funding from them. This application is in process, and the first stage of this would give us £5,000 towards our feasibility costs.

"This programme is also designed to meet the requirements of the Heritage Lottery Fund so securing this funding will support any future application to them to transform the Regal building."

The Ringwood Regal group is also in the process of becoming a charitable incorporated organisation.

At a recent planning committee meeting, town councillors heard of the campaigners' plans and suggested they invite U+I Group representatives to discuss options prior to any potential sale.

Vice chairman councillor Tim Ward told the meeting he believed the issue to be a matter for the full council.

Anyone wishing to donate to the campaign's cause can do so by visiting crowdfunder.co.uk/ringwood-regal-feasibility.