The Electric, once the UK's oldest working cinema, added to local heritage list

The Electric cinema on Station Street, once the oldest working cinema in the UK, has been added to Birmingham's Local Heritage List along with other historic sites.

The council's Planning Committee approved the additions on 13 August. The Electric first opened in 1909 and closed in February 2024.

The other sites

Also added are Cherry Reds on John Bright Street, the Gazette Buildings on Corporation Street, and the medieval moat and ridge and furrow earthworks in Old Yardley Park.

What local listing means

Birmingham's own list, which now has more than 440 entries, recognises places important to the city's history and character that do not meet the criteria for national listing. It does not stop a building being altered or demolished, but it means its heritage value must be taken into account in any planning decision affecting it.

"I'm especially pleased to see The Electric cinema being added to that list as, until it closed in 2024, it was the oldest working cinema in the UK so played a vital role in our city's cultural heritage," said Councillor Deborah Harries, Cabinet Member for Culture.

Anyone can nominate a site for the list, including individuals, community groups and Friends groups. Nominations are assessed by the council's conservation team before going to the Planning Committee.