One of Prescot’s most loved historic buildings is set to benefit from more restoration work after new funding was secured from Historic England.
The funding will support the next stage of improvements to the former Prescot Picture Palace, a Grade II listed building on Kemble Street that was once one of the country’s earliest cinema and variety venues.
In 2024, the building underwent a major makeover to restore its beautiful exterior. Using old photographs, specialists carefully recreated original features, helping return the landmark to its former splendour. The work included a new roof, replacement windows and shopfronts, restored decorative features and a recreated stained-glass window.
The latest investment will help continue efforts to protect the historic building and secure its future for years to come.
Cllr Tony Brennan, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said:
“The former Picture Palace building is an important part of Prescot’s history and has a special place in the hearts of many people.
“The restoration work completed so far has helped to return the exterior of the building to its former glory and this next phase will help ensure the building is ready for a future developer, and it can continue to be enjoyed by future generations.”
The former Picture Palace is one of 26 historic buildings in Prescot town centre to have benefited from restoration work as part of wider regeneration projects led by Knowsley Council and its partners.
The new funding marks another important step in bringing the landmark building back into use and ensuring it remains part of Prescot’s story for many years to come. Knowsley Council is continuing to work proactively to secure future investment to bring the building and space into use and to support the continued regeneration and transformation of Prescot town centre.