Built in 1913, Selsey Pavilion is an iconic and much-loved building located in a prominent position on the town’s high street. It comprises of a large theatre hall and balcony, with a small multi-functional room situated to the rear.
In its early years, as well as hosting a diverse mix of music, theatre and cinema, the building also held a range of different events, including army recruitment drives during WWII, auctions, court hearings and boxing matches. From the mid-1940s, the Pavilion became a full-time cinema. However, when the cinema closed to the public in the 1970s, the building was used as a commercial warehouse, before finally closing in 2007.
With the exception of a few special openings for local theatrical performances and exhibitions, the Pavilion has now been vacant for 15 years.
The Architectural Heritage Fund are delighted to have awarded Selsey Pavilion Trust with a grant towards their project to restore and reopen the building as a vibrant cinema and live performance space for residents and tourists to enjoy for many years to come.
