Capturing memories from the Odeon’s wonderful past

Built in 1936, Ashford’s Odeon is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks, a place where generations came together to watch films, dance, play bingo, and enjoy special events. 

Everything set out in the Ashford Borough Council Cabinet report in March is progressing well. The design is moving into more detailed stages, building on the original proposals, in collaboration with Stirling Prize-winning architects Haworth Tompkins.

Plans include a 200-capacity studio theatre, gallery space, a refurbished ballroom for community events, a café, bar, and box office. 

Comparable projects by the Haworth Tompkins architects include The Bush Theatre, The Young Vic, and the Donmar Warehouse in London, and they have recently been selected to lead the Royal Festival Hall refurbishment. 

The strip-out and removal of asbestos across the whole building has started, is going well, and is on schedule. The team has uncovered a number of original features, and we hope to retain these as part of the building’s unique design, linked to its history and heritage.

We are also progressing our early-stage business planning and have appointed specialist arts venue operator consultants to help identify an operator that aligns with the Council’s ambitions for the space ahead of a proposed opening in Summer 2028.

As plans to develop the building move forward, we want to celebrate its full story by capturing the memories that make it so special and ensure they continue to shape its future.

Our first community consultation event will take place on Saturday 4 July at the Ashford Gateway. This will give people the opportunity to share their memories of the building.

Share your memories of the former Ashford’s Odeon & Mecca Bingo Hall

We’re working with Ann Austin, founder of the Ashford People’s Library, to collect these memories. Tales, memories and stories will be carefully preserved as part of Ashford’s heritage, with support from Ashford Museum, and will help inform future design ideas, programming, exhibitions, and creative projects.

Be Part of the Story 

If you, or someone you know, has a memory of the Odeon or Mecca, we’d love to hear from you.

Do you remember:

• Seeing your first film here?
• Winning big at the bingo?
• Attending a dance or special event?
• Working in the building? 

Come along and share your story

Everyone is welcome to bring photographs, tickets, or memorabilia, every piece helps build a richer picture of the building’s history. No need to book, just drop in. Help us celebrate the life of this much-loved building and ensure its stories continue to inspire future generations.

Drop-in Sessions: Saturday 4 July 2026, 9:30am – 2:30pm & Saturday 22 August 2026, 9:30am – 2:30pm Ashford Gateway Plus Church Road, Ashford, Kent, TN23 1AS.

Further information about the project can be found on the ABC website including a recent video showing inside of the building ahead of works starting.