Residents have been wowed by the progress made to a transform an historic cinema that closed for refurbishment two years ago.

The Palace Cinema in Devizes opened its doors to the public for the first time since November 2021 on Saturday, September 16.

Crowds of locals visited the cinema to view the progress made by the lengthy renovation project, as part of the Devizes Heritage Open Day.

A range of changes to the inside of the building could be seen as visitors viewed the impressive auditorium.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Inside the Palace CinemaInside the Palace Cinema (Image: Trevor Porter)There are plans for the large stage area to double as both a cinema screen and a stage for theatrical productions.

Meanwhile a host of other improvements were on show, including a rebuilt ticket office, refurbished stairs leading from the foyer, and works to the upper seating area.

Owner Picturedrome Cinemas, which took over the popular venue in 2019, is yet to confirm a timescale for the completion of the project.

In the meantime, a proposal to extend the first floor of the cinema is awaiting a decision from Wiltshire Council at the time of writing.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Inside the Palace CinemaInside the Palace Cinema (Image: Trevor Porter)Locals took to Facebook to voice their praise for the renovation works.

During the tours, Trust for Devizes secretary Phillipa Morgan said: “If you haven’t been to the cinema yet, go. It’s amazing.”