MAKE no mistake the former ABC cinema is an asset to Bournemouth, which if it is allowed to be demolished without first being sure that another operator is prepared to re-open it, is folly indeed for a town that bases much of its income on leisure.

The restrictive covenant placed on the property by former owner Odeon shows a good deal of contempt for the local population who have for over 80 years supported Odeon and their predecessors.

The covenant protects Odeon but stifles the possible film choice that a new cinema operator could have provided to local film goers.

Indeed many new films continue to miss out on a Bournemouth release simply because the new Odeon cannot accommodate them all, owing to the quite limited seating capacity which means one film often has to play on two screens to provide enough seats.

(Boss Baby has played every week since 1st April).

The former ABC is a vacant cinema that could fulfil the kind of boutique cinema role with increased film choice that our south coast neighbours in Brighton and Southampton have enjoyed for many years.

ADRIAN COX

Three Acre Drive, Barton on Sea

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