Craft brewery proposed for former Cinema 6

cinema

From films to suds, a Chatham building could be in store for some big changes.

A planning report is coming forward to Chatham-Kent council on Monday, which is proposing to transform the former Cinema 6 building in Chatham into a craft brewery.

Storey Samways Planning Ltd. is recommending an official plan and zoning bylaw amendment to pave the way for the Sons of Kent Brewing Company to open up shop.

The proposal states the business is looking to convert the 27 Adelaide Street South former theatre into a craft brewery and craft cidery facility.

Once fully operational, the business is planning on producing an estimated 20,000 hectolitres of beer annually, and will employ 20 to 30 people. The proposal states the facility would include retail sales of its products, an interior tasting lounge and an exterior tasting patio.

The founding members of the brewery are Alf Hunter, Doug Hunter, Tim Copeland and Colin Chrysler.

“The Sons of Kent Brewery will produce all natural craft beers of the highest quality with local ingredients which reflect the character and bounty of the region and province,” the business says in their proposal.

“The community of Chatham is an ideal location with its current population demographic, ideal geographical location, tourism potential and agricultural excellence. The proposed brewery will provide a diverse portfolio of beers including a blonde ale, India pal ale, wheat beers and many other seasonal beers that will include ingredients sourced from the local region.”

The Sons of Kent say they plan on making improvements to the building as well.

There is an “opportunity for live entertainment and catered events. Various building improvements will be made to the facility to allow for this to take place I will include adding windows lighting signage and overall visual revitalization to a facility that is currently not being maintained.”

The Sons of Kent say the new facility will lead to a “positive outcome economically creating a unique destination and visitor experience, while making a cultural hub that is a catalyst for innovation and creative inspiration,” their proposal states.

A public open house was held in November, with positive feedback for the proposed redevelopment.

Council is set to vote on the item at Monday’s combined regular and planning meeting.

The meeting gets underway at 6 p.m. at the Civic Centre in Chatham.


– Photo credit: Google Maps

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