Preston’s Animate complex, featuring Arc Cinema, creates new leisure and job opportunities within the city.
The idea for a city cinema started in the 90s. Plans took shape about ten years ago. Nick also showed a statue of Feathers McGraw, who is an evil penguin.
Nick had BAFTA wins for “Vengeance Most Fowl.” He told the crowd Wallace and Gromit would like the new site, although Feathers was too close! The Wallace and Gromit statues have been near the market since 2021.
Nick spoke before going to the Oscars because his film is up for Best Animated Feature. He said it’s great for Preston’s people and that it makes Preston feel important.
Matthew Brown, a city council leader, said there’s risk in projects. He is confident in the £45.8 million project and believes it should help the city greatly.
Studies showed cinema demand is up again, and people want experiences in the city center. The council invests in their community by focusing on movies, food, and jobs.
Animate could create over 300 jobs. Argento Lounge and Taco Bell are now open, whilst Ask Italian and Mad Giant Food Hall are coming soon. Cosmo World Buffet and Las Iguanas are also expected to open in the near future.
Hollywood Bowl opens next month too, and they plan a game space like an escape room. Andrew Dewhurst said Animate needs more than one venue, adding that the council made it happen.
Phil Crowe said the opening breaks with failed plans, as the past attempts didn’t help the city. He expressed the desire for the whole city to gain from the new development.
Merlin Crossingham likes seeing films together, and he said it’s special, even with streaming services readily available. He was happy so many came to see Feathers.
Phil Crowe had hinted at the statue before the launch. He warned of a “terrifying” suspect who led a gang of gnomes.
Chris Jones said Feathers watched them for a year. His company made the statue, and he aimed to link it to the Wallace bench. He thinks it helps the whole space.