Rooftop cinema proposed for Surry Hills

A development application has been submitted to the City of Sydney for a 250-seat open-air cinema in Surry Hills.

The cinema, if approved, will occupy the rooftop of the Paramount Building on Commonwealth Street.

Under the plan, an additional storey would be added to the heritage listed building to accommodate the cinema and a “pavilion”, which would serve alcohol and meals.

According to the DA, hours of operation would be midday to midnight Monday to Saturday and midday to 11pm on Sundays’.

Under the plan, movies would screen 30 minutes after sunset for approximately two hours.

According to the Statement of Environmental Effects, noise will be adequately dealt with.

“The movie soundtrack will be broadcast to cinema goers utilizing provided headsets to minimise noise disturbance,” the statement says.

Moreover, the Environmental statement concludes the DA complies with Council objectives.

“The proposed use can be managed to avoid adverse impacts and provides an alternate entertainment option and use of a heritage listed building that relates to its historic use,” it states.

“The proposal is considered to have positive economic and social outcomes for the area and provides a recreation opportunity of a form not currently available.”

Local resident Geoff Mason said the cinema would be a great addition to the area.

“I really like the idea of a rooftop cinema, especially in summer,” he said.

“It would be so nice to sit down outside and watch a movie among friends.”

But Surry Hills resident Steve White said the cinema would create noise and transport issues.

“I like the idea in theory, but people drinking on a rooftop till midnight would generate a lot of noise,” he said.

“The public transport to Commonwealth Street is severely lacking and that would mean people would loiter out the front as well.”

It is estimated the cost of the development will cost $1.2 million and the architects are Fox Johnston.

Submissions supporting or objecting the proposal can be made to the City of Sydney until January 31.

by Sophie Cousins