An old nightclub that was once at the heart of nightlife in 'Staly Vegas' will be redeveloped into a food hall with a 'secret' bar.
Rififi, which shut its doors over a decade ago, contributed to Stalybridge's reputation as a party hotspot, with its nickname referencing Las Vegas. The upcoming food hall, situated at the junction of Market Street and Waterloo Road, is set to include a 1940s themed 'secret bar' and a jazz bar/restaurant.
Monopoly Events has put forward plans for an extensive refurbishment of the interior and the addition of a new canopy extension. The historic site is expected to house multiple dining establishments within the food hall.
The establishment will be christened 'The Palace', in tribute to its former incarnation as Palace Cinema before it became a nightclub. This name reflects its original title, Empire Palace Picture Theatre, dating back to 1913.
According to planning documents, "The proposal will deliver the positive effect of arresting the long deterioration of the building and securing its future by putting it to a sustainable and active alternative use which will also generate significant benefits to the local economy."
The documents add: "The appearance of the building will be enhanced by sensitive restoration, which also encompasses a new entrance canopy and subservient side extension to form a seating area.
"The design approach is influenced by Art Deco precedent, which is appropriate as this reflects the aesthetic of the golden age of cinema building in the middle years of the 20th century.
"The proposal will enhance the building and its contribution to the conservation area and is thus in accordance with both national guidance and the local development plan heritage policy."
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