Coun Doug Pullen, leader of Lichfield District Council, has admitted that the landmark Everyman cinema project replacing the former Debenhams store in Lichfield city centre will take longer and cost more than originally planned. The admission came in response to criticism from local MP Dave Robertson, who said the project had fallen "significantly behind schedule."
Original deadline missed and contractor replaced
The cinema was initially expected to open in April 2026, a date that has "clearly been missed," Coun Pullen acknowledged. The previous main contractor was fired earlier this year after failing to deliver the required standard and speed. Since then, a new contractor has been appointed, and progress on site has improved significantly, with construction now expected to complete in December 2026.
Structural challenges drive up costs
Coun Pullen explained that the former Debenhams building required extensive structural alterations to transform it into a modern multi-screen cinema, which proved more complex than anticipated. "The scale of the work has proved even greater than originally anticipated," he said. These additional structural works have increased the overall cost of the scheme, with the final investment figure to be published in full in council papers this week.
Opening now expected in spring 2027
After construction completes, Everyman and other tenants will carry out their own fit-out, expected to take around three months. The cinema is now anticipated to open in spring 2027. Despite the delays, Coun Pullen insisted the project remains the right investment for Lichfield, boosting the daytime and evening economy, attracting visitors, and supporting local businesses.
Financial return for taxpayers
The council leader highlighted that after meeting operating and maintenance costs, the cinema is expected to deliver a net return of more than £200,000 every year for local taxpayers. He noted that the project is part of a series of interventions by the Conservative council to support the local economy amid challenges facing town and city centres, particularly in the hospitality sector.
