Battle to save the Regent Theatre rages on

Something that gets my blood boiling is the arguments against the heritage value of the Regent Theatre.

ISPT and Multiplex are pushing for an $800 million redevelopment which at one point advocated for complete demolition of the 167 Queen Street building.

The preservationist argue that it is not worth saving, because the cinema was compromised years ago. And as usual, one asks where are the National Trust when you need them most ? Their Heritage at Risk website has a big "coming soon" on Brisbane. What may I ask is coming soon ? Demolition ? A decent heritage campaign ? A 22 storey replacement ? Someone who can build you a decent website and keep you up with the times ? Seriously, they are a bit of a joke these days ....

Not only is the 1929 and theatre the last of its kind remaining in Brisbane, but the foyer is spectacular and I have many fond memories of the excitement of going there to see a movie. The vaulted cathedral ceilings and their murals are a baroque revival with an eclectic splash of gothic and romanesque influences. It is one of few (along with the Regent in Melbourne) buildings of the old Hoyts franchise to survive which once had cinemas in most major cities of Australia. While the facade may not be seen by some to be noteworthy, it is one of the tallest interwar buildings in the city and contributes to the character of an otherwise ugly looking mall. Its proposed replacement is certainly not much better. I am even fond of the Elizabeth Street facing facade (photo is shown below as Google Street View apparently doesn't include the Queen Street Mall) although this will almost certainly disappear too.


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While Brisbane City Council may not want the Regent it appears that the Brisbane public (and ex-Brisvegans) alike want to fight to keep and there is even an active Facebook group, petition and website (http://www.savetheregent.com/) and even Geoffrey Rush want to save it and keep it open as a cinema. They appear to be succeeding, with proposals to retain the foyer and facade being seriously considered. Fingers crossed and I'll keep you posted as things develop.


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