DETERMINED Bala residents have saved the town’s cinema after raising thousands of pounds to reopen and modernise the venue.

Neuadd Buddug, historically a community hub, had faced an uncertain future as it had not shown any films since April 2015 after it became impossible to source new releases for its old 35mm film system.

However, several months ago the town was delighted to win a grant from the Arts Council of Wales for a new digital projector.

As Gwynedd Council could only afford 70 per cent of the fees for the grant application, the remaining 30 per cent – around £15,000 – was collected thanks to local fund-raisers and donations organised by group Cadwch Neuadd Buddug.

Despite the grant, the cinema has remained shut almost a year after their successful bid as the building was not “fit for purpose” under the Equality Act 2010.

But following a “very successful meeting” between the Friends of Neuadd Buddug and Gwynedd Council on 29 February, it has been confirmed that the Arts Council of Wales has approved another grant application for 50 per cent of the cost of installing a ramp and disabled toilet so it can comply with modern legislation.

A decision on the planning application for the ramp is awaited from Snowdonia National Park, but this is “expected within the next week” so building work can begin.

Nansi Thirsk, chair of the Friends of Neuadd Buddug, said: “We are most grateful to all in Bala and Penllyn, and indeed further afield, who have supported the campaign - over £19,000 has been raised in 12 months.”

See the full story in this week’s Cambrian News