Dingle Cinema Revamp Plans Unveiled by Cillian Murphy & Yvonne McGuinness
Dingle’s Phoenix Cinema Set for transformation into Arts Center
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The developers behind the proposed arts centre for the former Phoenix Cinema in Dingle unveiled preliminary designs for the new venue at a public meeting this weekend. Actor cillian Murphy and his wife, Yvonne McGuinness, purchased the historic cinema in 2024, aiming to revitalize it as a community and artistic hub.
The plans, presented by McGuinness, planning consultant Laura Brock, and architect Andrew Clancy, represent the second in a series of three public consultations held at the Phoenix itself.The “sketching” phase focused on gathering community input on the potential uses and design of the revamped space.
Project Details & Proposed Features
The enterprising project envisions a notable expansion of the approximately one-acre site. Key elements include:
- New Building: Construction of a building of similar height to the existing three-story cinema.
- Courtyard Enhancement: improvements to the outdoor courtyard area.
- Exhibition & rehearsal Spaces: Creation of dedicated spaces for artistic display and practice.
- Artist Studios: Progress of several residential studios for artists.
- Performance Space: Transformation of the main cinema into a state-of-the-art performance venue with removable seating,accommodating films,theater,and music.
Architect Andrew Clancy of Clancy Moore Architects noted, “We are building less than what a commercial developer would, but we’re building a good bit more than what Cillian and Yvonne would have ever envisaged at the start.”
Sustainability and Accessibility
The development prioritizes sustainability, incorporating:
- Heat Pumps: Utilizing heat pumps as the primary heating source.
- Sustainable Materials: Employing Irish timber and low-carbon cladding materials.
Accessibility is also a key consideration, with plans to include a lift in the new building and ensure all upstairs rooms are accessible to people with disabilities. The architect confirmed the availability of upstairs rooms for use by local organizations.
Timeline & Funding
While a specific budget hasn’t been disclosed, the project is expected to be a multi-year, multimillion euro undertaking. The development team aims to finalize plans in the coming months to apply for regeneration grants awarded in spring 2026.
Yvonne McGuinness has actively engaged with the local community, personally delivering postcards and visiting residents to gather feedback and address potential concerns.
Historical Meaning
The Phoenix Cinema has been a cornerstone of the Dingle community as its opening in 1919, serving as a cinema, concert hall, and events centre. It has been rebuilt twice after fires, earning its name. Notable past events include a performance by Rory Gallagher in 1964 and a screening of Cillian Murphy’s film, Perrier’s Bounty, in 2010.
The cinema was put on the market following its closure during the first Covid lockdown in November 2021, ending the O’Sullivan family’s ownership.