Building of the Month October 2024: Essoldo Cinema, Stretford, Greater Manchester

This eccentric looking structure was built in 1936 as the Longford Cinema in Stretford.  Its dramatic curving roofline accented by a giant central rib was apparently intended to ressemble a cash register – a comment by the architect, Henry Elder, on the evils of the film industry. Notwithstanding this, the eye-catching form of the roofline with elegant Art Deco lines make for a highly individual landmark building.  It is the only one of Elder’s cinema’s still standing.  It is Grade II listed (LEN: 1240376).

Inside, two original murals depicting aspects of the film industry are thought to survive behind coverings and much of the original design including mosaic floor tiles as well as the overall internal arrangement also remain.

The building was taken over by Essoldo cinemas in 1950 and later became a bingo hall. It has been closed and disused since 1997 but maintained with the exterior repainted periodically. Despite some indications that there were plans to reopen it as an entertainment venue, no developed plans have come forward and its long term future is in doubt.   For more information about the cinema and a range of fascinating images, see the Longford Cinema website.