Owner of the iconic site, David Kingston, whose K Capital Group, has owned the historic Roxy since 2002, has plans for a 20 storey residential/commercial tower on top and behind the theatre with Parramatta Council.
Those plans allow for the restoration of the theatre space, available for hire for shows or events.
Mr Kingston said he was perturbed by calls for the Roxy to be retained as a theatre when the theatre was to be restored.
The National Trust’s Parramatta sub-branch is running a campaign to bring performing arts back to the Roxy.
The Trust has put in a submission to the State Government for the government or Parramatta Council to buy the Roxy to restore it to its former glory, for live shows and movies.
“This submission is about a vision for the future of the new Parramatta, and restoring the Roxy for use as a major live theatre, the centrepiece of Parramatta, in order to give the people of Parramatta and the Western Suburbs a future centre of community, social and cultural importance,” National Trust Parramatta spokesman Gary Carter said.
But. while Mr Kingston said live theatre groups could hire the refurbished venue, he said it would not be suitable for movies.
“The reason the cinema closed in 2002 was because it was no longer viable,” Mr Kingston said.
“But, when it comes to live theatre, we are on the same page (as those running a campaign for live theatre).
“That is part of my long-term plan but first step is having Parramatta Council approve our development plans. We are still talking to council to sort some details out.”
Mr Kingston has been in discussion with council about his plans since last year.
The Roxy, which Mr Kingston operated as a hotel and nightclub, was closed in July 2014.
Mr Kingston said his proposed redevelopment involves restoring all aspects of the Roxy building - the two front annexes as restaurants and restoration and upgrade works to the theatre.
“We are working with a heritage architect and have a comprehensive Conservation Management Plan,” he said.
“When the Roxy was redeveloped by my group in 2002 as a hotel, it was awarded a NSW Government heritage award.
“That useage is no longer the optimum usage so a new life for the Roxy is being progressed.”
