FILM fans are being asked to show the huge level of community support for the reopening of the Rex Cinema in Wilmslow.

The call comes from Sophie Taylor from the Rex Revival Group, which spearheaded calls for the return of the cinema and has almost 4,500 members.

The cinema is being reopened by the Mundin family, who are seeking permission from Cheshire East Council to change the use of the building back to its original use as a cinema.

Sophie wants supporters of the group to tell Cheshire East planners why they want to see the building's use to be returned to that of a cinema.

“Please take a few minutes to support the planning application for a change of use back to a cinema,” said Sophie.

“It is very straightforward to do and will show Cheshire East the huge amount of support for the reopening of The Rex.”

The change of use application, 18/4422M, can be viewed on the Cheshire East planning portal.

The deadline for submitting comments is October 17, and the target date for a decision on the application is November 2. The scheme is due to be determined under delegated authority.

Two full-time and 10 part-time jobs are due to be created with the reopening of the cinema, which opened on October 15, 1936 and closed on June 5, 1996.

The application has been submitted by Amanda Mundin, who said The Rex was the most iconic building in Wilmslow.

She said: “Our company, Rex Cinema Wilmslow, has taken a lease on the Rex Cinema for 15 years with a view to operating it as a two-screen cinema, showing two or three films daily in each.

“We proposed to make major alterations to the building, reinstating use of the original balcony area after major reconstruction to create a much-improved viewing and seating experience.

“We will fully refurbish the entrance and create a box office foyer, which has been used for the past 20 years as a furniture showroom.

“A second new screen will be created in the ballroom area on the first floor, and we will provide new toilets.”

A lift is due to be created, accessed from the side of the building, to create wheelchair access to the first floor.

The original stepped façade will remain the same, as will the glass doors and side panels.

The first floor will be completely refurbished, and the area opened up to create a new box office and concession sales area. The existing stairs will remain and be carpeted.

Screen one will have about 150 seats, but there will be no wheelchair access to the screen due to the nature of the building.

The new second screen, which will be created in the original ballroom, will have a wheelchair accessible area.

“Our proposals have taken full consideration of access,” added Amanda.

“Where we are able we will improve provision for all disabled people.

“We hope that the changes made to lighting, stairs, handrails and toilet facilities will also aid the elderly and those with limited mobility.

“The technical improvements should vastly increase the enjoyment of cinema for the hearing and sight-impaired.”

She said there were excellent bus services to the town centre, regular trains from Manchester, Alderley Edge and Handforth and a car park directly behind the cinema.