Kinematograph Hall (Bridge Picture House), Kenyon Street, Radcliffe

The purpose-built picture hall was located on the south bank of the River Irwell in Kenyon Street, Radcliffe. The owner, George Testo Sante, a former music hall strongman had already employed Humphreys in the building of the nearby Grand Theatre, Radcliffe. (qv). The Picture Palace opened in 1911. It had 700 seats, a 12 feet deep stage and two dressing rooms and was built by J W Lee, Chorley (accepted tender £786 17s 0d). It was equipped for ‘talkies’ in 1929 when a British Talking Pictures (BTP) sound system was installed and by 1931 was operated by the Picture Theatres (Radcliffe Ltd.  The Bridge Picture House was closed in 1952 and the building was sold. It was operated by a motor body firm for several years before eventual demolition.

Reference           Building News 30 September 1910 page xvi – tenders