Gourock's Picture Hoose Granted Planning Approval For Cinema

The silver screen is coming to Gourock as planning approval is granted for a popular cocktail bar to include a small cinema.

Picture Hoose has been serving up drinks since it opened in June in the former George Young photography studio on Kempock Street - and now it will be able to do what its name suggests.

The site was completely transformed by owner Clyde Murray in less than a year and features a stylish bar area with indoor seating and a beer garden.

A ‘change of use’ application was submitted in September, and detailed plans to add the cinema to the existing operation.

Now approved, the screening room will be in the existing lounge area adjacent to the bar and will include 21 seats for guests to watch movies on a large viewing screen.

The proposal outlined that the existing primary conservatory bar and the toilet will remain unchanged, with the cinema room and bar having separate access to the rear, main bar.

Speaking last year when his request for a provisional premises licence was granted by Inverclyde Council, Clyde said the venue would have a ‘quiet atmosphere’ with the cinema adding to the ‘relaxing’ environment.

He also said Picture Hoose intends to focus on older films instead of newer releases.

Alongside showing movies, the cinema room has the potential to be used as a games room, with children and young people allowed access when accompanied by an adult.

While waiting for the approval, Picture Hoose has been open as a bar every Wednesday to Sunday, from 4.30pm until late, serving specialty cocktails and small bar snacks.

The venue’s first screening has already been announced with a showing of a scientific film titled Lost for Words as part of a collaboration with local eco group Green Tangerine.

After the showing on Tuesday, November 25, Clyde will host a Christmas cocktail-making class, showing attendees how to make their own festive-themed drink.

The unit was let by Bowman Rebecchi with further support provided by Rebecchi Architectural with the planning and building warrant.

This article and image appeared in The Greenock Telegraph.