Plans for Kentish Town cinema take one step closer following council approval

Residents in Kentish Town are a step closer to seeing a cinema return to their neighbourhood after councillors agreed to allow a music venue to screen films.

The Forum in Highgate Road is turning back the clock by adding cinema privileges – and boxing – to its licence.

It marks a return to the building’s original use as an art deco cinema when it was erected in 1934, subsequently making way for a live music venue.

While music gigs are expected to remain as The Forum’s primary use, film showings are likely to prove a popular addition.

Only one complaint was said to have been received following the application, which concerned parking pressures.

Residents could also see a second cinema opening its doors after separate plans were submitted to turn the former Pizza Express building in Kentish Town Road into an upmarket cinema earlier this year.

It has so far been left empty with a number of squatters taking over the building.