Key Highlights
- The first Art-Deco 1400-seater Odeon cinema in Bury St Edmunds was designed by George Coles.
- Oscar Leopold Deutsch opened his flagship Bury Odeon on July 5, 1937, with a ceremony involving the mayor and local dignitaries.
- The Odeon became Grade II listed but faced decline due to home entertainment trends and closed in 1982.
- Following its closure, the site was developed into Cornhill Walk, a shopping mall that has struggled with commercial viability.
A Pioneering Cinema in Bury St Edmunds
The history of cinema in Bury St Edmunds reached a significant milestone with the opening of the Odeon on July 5, 1937. This splendid Art-Deco structure was designed by George Coles F.R.I.B.A., a renowned architect known for his contributions to the Art Deco movement in British cinema architecture.
According to Martyn Taylor’s article from 28 October 2025, the Odeon was not just any cinema; it was the first one built specifically for sound films. The impressive capacity of 1,400 seats made it a landmark in the town’s entertainment landscape. At its opening, it hosted a grand ceremony attended by local dignitaries including Councillor Robert Olle J.P., who also facilitated a charity collection for West Suffolk Hospital.
The Visionary Behind the Odeon
Oscar Leopold Deutsch was the driving force behind this cinema. Born in 1893 and the son of a Hungarian Jewish scrap metal dealer, Deutsch’s journey to becoming one of Britain’s leading theatre owners is as fascinating as his creation. By 1937, he had established an extensive network of Odeon cinemas across the country, with his Bury branch being just part of his broader empire.
Deutsch’s dedication to his faith and community was evident in various ways, including his support for Jewish causes and the use of British materials in constructing his cinemas. Sadly, he passed away in December 1941 due to cancer, leaving behind a legacy that would be further shaped by subsequent events.
The Decline of the Odeon
After Deutsch’s death, the Odeon was sold to J Arthur Rank Organisation, leading it through various changes. By the 1970s and 1980s, the cinema faced competition from home entertainment technologies like Betamax and VHS, which significantly reduced its audience. The Odeon officially closed on October 30, 1982, marking a sad end to an era of cinematic grandeur.
The site’s future was uncertain, leading to its eventual demolition in 1983.
In its place rose Cornhill Walk, a shopping mall intended to revitalize the area but has struggled with commercial viability and development issues. This transformation reflects the broader challenges faced by traditional cinemas in adapting to changing consumer preferences.
Lessons for Modern Cinemas
The story of Bury St Edmunds Odeon serves as a reminder of how cinema must evolve or risk becoming obsolete. The closure of the Odeon and subsequent changes underscore the importance of staying relevant in an increasingly digital age. While Cornhill Walk initially seemed like a promising solution, it highlights the complexities involved in repurposing historic buildings for modern uses.
As we look to the future, it is clear that traditional cinemas face significant challenges but also opportunities for innovation and adaptation. The lessons from Bury St Edmunds Odeon can inspire others to preserve cultural landmarks while embracing new technologies and audience expectations.
