Wyndham council has announced plans to explore the feasibility of reponing the old Palais Theatre in Station Place, Werribee.
The Picture Palais theatre and cinema first opened in 1928 and has since had several reincarnations.
With the building due to be vacant by the end of the year, council intends to explore the possibility of restoring the historic facade and relaunching the cinema.
The proposal forms part of the Werribee City Centre Structure Plan, which lists the potential revitalisation of the space and reopening of a boutique cinema as an opportunity to boost foot traffic in the area.
Current tenants Cash Converters will relocate to a central new location on Watton Street in the coming months.
Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw said the soon-to-be vacant site provides council with an exciting opportunity.
“In early 2024, Wyndham City made a strategic decision to purchase the former Palais Theatre site in Station Place to protect this important piece of Werribee’s history and guide the type of development that we will see there in the future,” Cr Shaw said.
“With the site due to become vacant by the end of the year, we now intend to explore the feasibility of returning the Palais to its former glory as a cinema, including restoration of its historic facade.”
For more information on the development of the Werribee City Centre: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/rediscover-werribee-cc
