Cinema and arts venue in Bovey Tracey nears completion with new share offer

A cinema, live performance space and arts venue in the heart of Bovey Tracey is nearing completion, and local residents are being invited to become part-owners through a new community share offer.

Bovey Paradiso Arts, based in the restored 16th-century King of Prussia building, has launched a share offer running from 2 June to 31 July 2025 (date to be confirmed), aiming to raise £275,000 to help finish the final stages of the development.

ABOVE: CGI aerial view showing the restored King of Prussia building and the Bovey Paradiso Arts development in Bovey Tracey. Credit: Bovey Paradiso Arts

“This is a bold, people-powered initiative to complete our cinema, live performance auditorium, and re-open our café with a stunning new atrium. Backed by over 400 local shareholders already, this next phase is set to transform the artistic heart of the town.” the group said.

The venue has already delivered a community art gallery, four artist studios – including one occupied by illustrator Sarah McIntyre – a fully equipped catering kitchen, and a popular cinema club that brings entertainment to rural areas.

The next phase will see the opening of an 80-seat cinema, a live performance auditorium, and the return of a café and restaurant, all designed to serve as a creative hub for Bovey Tracey and surrounding communities.

Bovey Paradiso Arts is run as a charitable Community Benefit Society, meaning any profits are reinvested into the community. Over 400 shareholders have supported the project so far.

The group said: “We are so close to opening this fabulous space to the public for cinema, theatre and entertainment.”

Through the share offer, supporters can invest a minimum of £100 and become co-owners of the venue.

Shareholders will receive member benefits including regular updates, VIP event invitations, and advance booking privileges.

“Investing in Bovey Paradiso Arts is more than just buying shares – it’s about shaping the community’s future,” the group added.

“Shareholders will help create an inclusive space where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect, create and celebrate the arts through film, music, drama, comedy, good food and visual arts.”

Applications can be made online at: www.paradiso.org.uk/Community-Share-offer/Paradiso-Arts

Paper forms are also available from Bovey Paradiso Arts at 83 Fore Street, Bovey Tracey, on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm.

A series of public events will be announced to celebrate the launch of the community share offer.