emda helps Broadway get creative

Nottingham’s Broadway, the home of independent and world cinema in the East Midlands, has undergone a Ł5.7m redevelopment to transform it into a regional media centre.

East Midlands Development Agency (emda) is one of a number of partners that has funded the project, which has seen the construction of a ‘creative workspace’ – a suite of offices made available for 20 businesses, from film producers to design companies. It is anticipated that these businesses will employ around 60 people in total.

The new workspace – built around what used to be 17 Heathcoat Street – is aimed at start-up and emerging companies that will benefit from improved office space and better technology.

The redevelopment has turned the Broadway into a hi-tech independent cinema complex, named after local designer Paul Smith, with two new cinema screens.

The designer has played a hand in its creation, with 34 two-person seats providing a central feature in a fabric bearing his signature chocolate brown stripes. He also had an input into the interior design, as well as providing the voiceover for the pre-film clips.

The facility also includes a studio for multiple use and an advanced high-definition digital projection system.

Sue Kirby, emda’s Policy and Communications Director, said: “emda is pleased to be supporting the Broadway project, as it is a great opportunity for creative businesses to enhance their productivity and performance in a supportive environment with state of the art facilities.”

Steve Mapp, Deputy Director of the Broadway media complex, said: “This investment forms part of a wider long-term strategy for creative industries in the city. With the help of emda, we have now reached the stage where we have more space for more businesses.”

For more information on Broadway, visit www.broadway.org.uk.