A family-owned cinema and restaurant business has been unveiled as the operator for a major new venue.
The Digital Picture House Limited has been selected by Mid Sussex District Council to run the new Clair Hall development in Haywards Heath.
The company already operates venues in Uckfield and East Grinstead.
The plans for the venue include a four-screen cinema, multi-use performance space, and community facilities, all equipped with professional sound and lighting, as well as a restaurant.
The council’s cabinet announced the selection following a procurement process, with the winner revealed after the completion of legal formalities.
Councillor Robert Eggleston, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council, said: "We are delighted to be able to finally name the cultural operator unanimously agreed by cabinet.
"The Digital Picture House Limited has an exceptional reputation and history for creating a destination that is accessible to all.
"With their deep knowledge, proven experience and strong community focus, we are confident that they will make a real success of the new offering at Clair Hall."
The hall, a former community venue, was closed by the council in 2020.
A scheme to demolish the hall and replace it with a cinema was approved in March last year, however it was then listed as an asset of community value, meaning the council had to give community interest groups an opportunity to place a bid.
The Haywards Heath Community CIC submitted a bid to turn the venue into a multi-use civic and cultural hub, however the bid was rejected earlier this month.
The Digital Picture House Limited was established in 1964 by Mid Sussex resident Roy Marwick and is now run by his son, Kevin Marwick.
Read more
-
Is this the most expensive rental property in Sussex at £53,000 a month?
-
How storms have helped protect Sussex town's seafront from eroding
-
Major year-long works at motorway junction to begin this month
Kevin Marwick, chief executive of The Digital Picture House, said: "We are beyond delighted to be selected to be the operator of choice for Clair Hall.
"Our vision is to carry on our tradition of providing a community-friendly venue and restaurant that makes cultural experience accessible to all."
Mr Marwick added the company is looking forward to bringing the same ethos to Haywards Heath.
The council has confirmed that the next step for the venue is to procure a developer for the site.
Share