Plymouth’s historic Millennium Building is set for a new lease of life after a £600,000 investment from Resonance and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, working alongside local regeneration charity Nudge Community Builders.
Landmark saved for the community
The Union Street site which was once a bustling cinema and nightclub until it stood empty for 17 years. Thanks to the new deal, the building is now fully in community ownership and work has started on transforming it into a space for young people, live music, workshops, and a café bar.
Hannah Sloggett, Co-Founder of Nudge, said:
“We couldn’t wait to bring this special building back into use after it had stood empty for 17 years.
“We can now move forward with confidence and look forward to the journey to bring this building back into use for lasting local benefit.”
A history of transformation
- 1931: Built as a cinema
- Late 20th century: Converted into a nightclub
- 2000s: Closed and left empty
- 2017 onwards: Nudge Community Builders began purchasing parts of the site with support from community investors
Today, thanks to £600,000 joint investment and an additional £480,000 Youth Investment Fund grant, construction is underway.
Supporting Plymouth’s future
Tom Crook, Investment Manager at Resonance, said:
“Resonance and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation are delighted to partner in a joint investment into Nudge, supporting efforts to bring this iconic building into community ownership.
“We are a huge supporter of Nudge and the work they are doing in Plymouth.”
Since 2017, Nudge Community Builders has helped regenerate Union Street, unlocking five derelict sites and turning them into vibrant spaces for local people.
About the partners
Resonance Community Developers Fund: Invests in affordable homes, community spaces, and renewable energy projects.
Esmée Fairbairn Foundation: One of the UK’s largest independent funders, supporting projects that improve the environment, create fairer futures, and strengthen communities.
