The owner of a historic Croydon shopping centre has announced that a major cinema could return to the site, following the closure of Vue Cinema last month. The owners of Grants Entertainment Centre in Croydon cited anti-social behaviour and declining footfall as key factors forcing the closure of the cinema on April 9, which brought more than two decades of operation on the site.
Closure Sparks Online Backlash
The closure, which attracted a large online backlash last month, was the latest in a recent line of retailers leaving the town centre, including 101 Records, Five Guys and Flying Tiger. However, Croydon Mayor Jason Perry has said that meetings with Grants’ new owners, MGI Holdings, has given him encouragement for the future of shopping in the town centre.
Mayor Perry Expresses Optimism
Posting on social media yesterday (May 5), the Conservative Mayor said he was encouraged by the ambitions for the site. He noted that both Nuffield Health and Nando’s are currently reviewing their leases at Grants, and that advanced discussions are underway with a range of leisure operators, including potential plans for bowling, interactive sports and a new bar.
However, he also acknowledged Vue’s recent closure, stating that MGI Holdings had made a “serious effort” to retain the cinema. A representative from MGI Holdings told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that Vue chose to close the location, despite being offered a substantial rent reduction to around a quarter of its existing rate.
Reasons Behind Vue’s Departure
They told the LDRS: “It appears they were facing ongoing challenges, including anti-social behaviour resulting in increased security costs, as well as declining footfall. The lack of adequate car parking and the overall condition of this side of the High Street—particularly the presence of a closed, derelict site opposite—also contributed to the difficult trading environment.”
When the LDRS visited Grants following the closure, footfall appeared to be minimal for the remaining retailers in the entertainment complex. While a number of shop units were noticeably empty, the Tokia Square Asian food hall on the second floor still attracted some lunchtime customers.
Residents React
While Vue Cinema has since urged customers to visit its nearby location in Purley Way, the closure of the Grants branch sparked a reaction from local residents, with many sharing their views on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook in the weeks following. Many expressed fears for the future of Grants, which was originally established as a luxury department store in 1895, and was once referred to as “the Harrods of south London”.
Despite the closure, both Perry and MGI confirmed that conversations are currently underway for another cinema to replace Vue on the upper floors of Grants. The LDRS understands that both Cineworld and Light Cinemas have expressed interest, with conversations “progressing positively”.
Mixed Reactions from Locals
Residents’ responses to the Mayor’s post were mixed, with some praising the efforts to revitalise the town centre. Facebook user Natasha Melissa commented: “We desperately need something like bowling and arcades. Bringing back a new cinema with luxury seats would also be good. Very happy to hear this.”
However, some residents raised ongoing concerns about the surrounding area. David W Bell echoed the concerns of MGI regarding the dormant St George’s Walk site, commenting: “What about the abandoned building site opposite?”
Future Plans for Grants
Looking ahead, MGI said it believes the Grants building remains a vital community asset with significant potential for renewal. It now hopes to introduce a broader mix of family-focused leisure attractions such as mini golf, interactive gaming and bowling. MGI also said local political support would be needed to address some of the site’s ongoing challenges. They noted that Croydon West's Labour MP Sarah Jones has also offered backing, particularly around improving parking access and tackling anti-social behaviour.
Perry, who will be contesting his position as Croydon Mayor in the upcoming elections on May 7, concluded his post saying: "This is proactive ownership and exactly the kind of investment Croydon needs. Momentum is building for this part of our town centre."
