British Film Institute backs 'The Save the David Lean Cinema Campaign'

The decision to move the cinema away from Croydon Clock Tower sparked anger among supporters, who have campaigned for the 68 seat venue to be reopened.

The cinema fell victim to the council's arts-related budget cuts and was the borough's only independent cinema before it closed in April.

Amanda Nevill, chief executive of the BFI who is responsible for promoting understanding and appreciation of film and television heritage and culture, said she was “saddened” by the closure.

As a result of its closure, the cinema will no longer be a part of the London Film Festival. The venue played a crucial role enabling residents living in outer boroughs to watch festival films.

Ms Nevill said: “Sadly this is no longer the case and local residents and visitors to this vital community cinema will be worse off as a result.”

News the cinema would move to a new home sparked a negative response, with high profile figures such as Ronnie Corbett and Oscar winning scriptwriter Julian Fellowes offering their support.

Campaign chairman Adrian Winchester said: “We are delighted to have the BFI’s support. The loss of London Film Festival screenings is one of the reasons why the cinema’s closure is such a blow to those who value arts and culture in Croydon.”

Despite more than 600 supporters signing a petition which was presented at a recent council meeting, Sara Bashford, Croydon council's cabinet member for culture and sport, remained committed to keeping the cinema closed.

At the meeting defended the first programme at Fairfield Hall, which mixed current releases with less mainstream films.

She said: "I think it is a good program, but we are happy to discuss the type of programs that are shown."

Mr Winchester added: “Considering our petition simply asked the council to engage with any constructive proposals that could make it possible to re-open the cinema, we find Councillor Bashford’s extreme negativity baffling.”