Surprise donation ensures a future for Woolton Picture House

In a dramatic, last-minute twist worthy of the silver screen, Woolton Picture House has officially been saved.

After months of tireless fundraising and a race against time, the campaign surpassed its £450,000 target. Public donations raised a total of £532,884 since October. But, last week, as the cinema and its community was celebrating the success, an extraordinary, anonymous donation arrived just as the clock was about to run out.

The mystery benefactor stepped in to purchase Woolton Picture House outright. They have given the building to Woolton Cinema CIC on a 100-year lease at a “peppercorn rent” arrangement that will run until the cinema’s 200th anniversary. The unprecedented intervention ensures the long-term future of the venue as a community asset. It also allows all funds raised by the public to be released in full for the building’s refurbishment.

Community power drives campaign

What began as a determined local effort to save a historic building has now become a landmark moment of community achievement. Since October, funds have been raised through a packed programme of sell-out screenings, grassroots events and countless volunteer hours. Creative brand collaborations with partners such as Derek’s have also supported the fundraising. This all came alongside hundreds of individual donations from the public.

Kevin Fearon, one of the driving forces behind the campaign, said:

“We always believed in this project, but to see it come together in this way, right at the very last moment, is something truly special. The support we’ve had has been overwhelming. People haven’t just donated money; they’ve given their time, their skills, and their passion. This building means so much to so many, and today proves just how powerful a community can be when it comes together behind something it loves.”

A new era for Woolton Picture House

With the purchase now secured, attention turns to the next chapter: bringing Woolton Picture House back to life. The funds raised by the community are set to play a vital role in restoring the cinema. There are also plans to expand its offer into a multi-purpose space for film, live events and community activity.

The campaign team has extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a part in saving the cinema. From donors and volunteers to local partners and supporters who championed the cause at every stage, all are valued highly.

What once felt uncertain is now a story of triumph. A cinematic ending for one chapter, and the beginning of an exciting new era for Liverpool’s oldest surviving cinema.