Historic Regent Cinema

Eligibility - Queensland citizens
Principal Petitioner:
Vicki Bridgstock
12 Beaton Street
Coopers Plains Qld 4108
Total Signatures - 1,019
Sponsoring Member: Simon Finn MP
Posting Date: 3/6/2008
Tabled Date: 3/6/2008
Responded By: Hon Andrew McNamara MP on 30/7/2008
TO: The Honourable the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland
The petition of the citizens of Queensland draws to the attention of the House our concerns at the proposal to demolish the historic Regent cinema. The beautiful Regent Theatre has played a major part in Brisbane's social history since 1929. It holds an important place in the history of Brisbane and the memories of its people. The Regent was controversially redeveloped in the late 1970s resulting in parts of it being saved and heritage listed. While redevelopment plans claim to preserve heritage listed parts of the cinema - namely the foyer and staircase --the developers concede that the demolition of the rest will diminish the historical significance of these places and may endanger their actual fabric. In addition, the showcase cinema earmarked for demolition contains many important historical items from the original auditorium, which need to be preserved. The Elizabeth Street façade also needs to be preserved as it contains valuable elements of early 20th century architecture. There is a general trend in Brisbane toward the destruction of our heritage. This trend needs be recognised and halted. There is a strong case for the preservation of a theatre in Queen Street to cater for long-running and important cultural events. Your petitioners therefore request the House to review the current status of the Regent, to halt all proposed development work that could compromise the theatre and to ensure that all historically important parts of this magnificent building be properly heritage listed and preserved for the future.