Chorlton CLT

The Picture House Consultation 2019

Context

Chorlton Community Land Trust surveyed its members and pledgers about potential future uses for The Picture House (the former Co-op Funeralcare building). This was with a view to restoring the building, redeveloping the site (in partnership with a commercial developer) for community use / ownership. A bid was prepared for the Stayin’ Alive project, and submitted to the Co-op, based on the consultation findings. 

Findings

The top three strongly supported preferences for use were:

  • Providing a place where people can meet
  • Establishing a multi-purpose facility
  • Retaining a local asset of community value

Further probing on the purpose for the building produced the following preferred objectives

  • Creating a new landmark attraction
  • Creating new jobs in Chorlton
  • Accommodating new businesses in Chorlton

Key essentials were that the site should:

  • Be physically accessible to all
  • Adapt to reflect local demands
  • Be managed by the community
  • Maintain a business focus, but not to damage existing independent retail, especially with regard to food and drink.
  • Use art wherever possible to engage stakeholders

In terms of actual building use:

  • The core food market concept on the first floor got most support, with strong backing for performance and pop-up film
  • Recognising the Bee Gees and creating a Maker Space/Library of Things
  • Respondents were less keen on the idea of a community gym

    An aspirational social value report was also produced.