Historic Pub Transformation Threatens New Cinema Plans in Forest Hill
The landscape of Forest Hill in South London is set to undergo a significant transformation with the impending arrival of a new Gambado soft play center at The Capitol on London Road. This historic building, once an art-deco cinema, has seen various businesses come and go over the years, but the latest development has sparked excitement and concern among locals.
The announcement of Gambado’s plans to open a new branch at The Capitol has sparked speculation about the future of the building and the impact it will have on the surrounding community. With signs already appearing in the windows, indicating a potential opening in the summer of 2025, residents are eagerly awaiting further details on what the soft play center will offer.
The primary branch of Gambado in Chelsea has been a popular destination for families for over a decade, offering a range of activities such as laser tag, ball pits, rides, and themed parties. If the new Forest Hill location follows suit, it is sure to become a hotspot for children in the area.
This announcement marks the third business to occupy the space since the closure of the cinema in 1978. After serving as a bingo hall for nearly two decades, the building was transformed into a Wetherspoons pub, known for its unique interior featuring film posters, a preserved ticket booth, and a mannequin attendant. The decision to sell the pub in 2022 was described as a ‘commercial decision’ by Tim Martin’s chain, leaving residents hopeful that a cinema group would restore the building to its former glory.
However, plans for a cinema renovation have been put on hold, as financial difficulties have plagued major cinema chains such as Cineworld and Odeon. This setback comes as a blow to Lewisham’s cinema scene, following the withdrawal of Curzon from the Ladywell Playtower development in 2022. The entire project came to a standstill in 2023 after developers cited financial constraints to Lewisham Council.
As the future of cinema in Forest Hill remains uncertain, the arrival of Gambado at The Capitol signals a new chapter for the historic building. With its promise of family-friendly entertainment and interactive experiences, the soft play center is poised to breathe new life into the community and provide a welcome addition to the local leisure scene.
Local Reaction and Concerns
The news of Gambado’s impending arrival at The Capitol has sparked a mix of excitement and concern among Forest Hill residents. While many welcome the prospect of a new family-friendly attraction in the area, others are apprehensive about the impact it may have on the community and the building’s heritage.
Some long-time residents remember the days when The Capitol was a thriving cinema, serving as a cultural hub for the neighborhood. The closure of the cinema in 1978 marked the end of an era, and the subsequent transformations of the building have left many nostalgic for its former glory.
The decision to turn the space into a soft play center has raised questions about the preservation of the building’s history and architectural significance. Will Gambado retain any elements of the cinema’s art-deco design, or will it undergo a complete overhaul to suit its new purpose?
Concerns have also been raised about the impact of the soft play center on the local community. With increased foot traffic and noise expected once Gambado opens its doors, some residents worry about the potential disruption to the quiet neighborhood atmosphere.
Despite these concerns, there is a sense of optimism about the future of The Capitol. With Gambado’s reputation for providing safe and entertaining experiences for children, many families in the area are looking forward to having a new leisure option close to home.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Forest Hill’s Leisure Scene
As Forest Hill continues to evolve and grow, the arrival of Gambado at The Capitol represents a new chapter in the neighborhood’s leisure scene. With the soft play center set to open its doors in 2025, residents can look forward to a range of family-friendly activities and entertainment options right on their doorstep.
While the closure of the cinema and the setbacks in the development of a new cinema in the area have been disappointing, the arrival of Gambado signals a fresh start for The Capitol. As one chapter closes and another begins, the building’s rich history and heritage will be preserved in a new and exciting way.
As the countdown to Gambado’s opening begins, residents of Forest Hill can anticipate a vibrant new addition to their community, one that promises to bring joy and laughter to children and families for years to come. The transformation of The Capitol from a historic cinema to a modern soft play center is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this beloved neighborhood, ensuring that its cultural legacy lives on in new and innovative ways.
