The vision for the future of Birmingham’s Electric Cinema has been revealed

Audiences were given a glimpse of what the future might hold for Britain’s oldest working cinema.

The Electric Cinema in Birmingham’s historic Station Street closed in February.

Leaseholder Glenbrook told a public meeting it was ambitious to “reinvent” the cinema, which dates back to 1909, and see the street transformed into “the heart of a wider cultural promenade”.

He shared an early vision of the plans which he said would need “significant” funding, which could be supported by homes built to rent in a tower block.

“Electric has evolved over time to survive – built, rebuilt and adapted many times,” said the real estate developer.

“We think it needs to evolve again, survive and thrive for another century.”

The changes could make the location a “film landmark in the city” and a “cultural catalyst” for the successful future of the entire street.

The firm is the tenant for 43-45, 47 and 51-55 Station Street, which includes the cinema but not The Crown or The Old Rep.

Glenbrook said its aspirations involved working with key partners, including Birmingham City Council.

He has not yet met with the council’s planning officers to start a pre-application process as the developers wanted to “take as long as we need to get to the right solution”.

It said The Electric’s independence would “remain critical” and that it had no plans to work with a cinema chain.

A new facade paying homage to the original Art Deco design could be the best solution due to the condition of the building, it is said.

However, he stressed that the plans had not yet progressed “beyond an initial concept” and wanted to work with local partners on possible options.

“Working together, we can turn the street into the vibrant cultural street that we know it has the potential to be and once was,” Glenbrook said.