In November 2002, the McKenzie Group purchased the New Bedford Cinema.

Following a £3,000,000 conversion and restoration, Lennox and McMath's building reopened as The Carling Academy on March 26th 2003 with a concert by Deacon Blue.

During its time as a bingo hall, much of the interior detail had been hidden by suspended ceilings and panelling - this proved to be an advantage, as these original features were protected.

A good example of this was the pink grain marble panels on the balcony stairs, only a few needed replacing and an artist was brought in to trace the pattern creating replacements which blend seamlessly with the originals.

Paint specialists were brought in and by scraping back layers of paint a match for the original colour scheme was achieved. A replica of one of the stained glass windows on the side of the building was created, the rainbow arch above the entrance was restored.

This lovingly restored building now boosts a state of the art sound and lighting system and all the facilities needed for a modern music venue whilst retaining the grandeur of the original ceiling features, balcony and boxes, proscenium arch as well as the original façade.

ABOVE: The Carling Academy in December 2004
Special thanks to David Laing, General Manger of the Carling Academy