THE FINAL CURTAIN FOR LOCAL CINEMA? Theatre Royal Latest in Long Line of Independent Picture Houses Falling by Wayside

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Byline: Bethan Evans

FOR a nation which has championed independent cinemas since the 1950s, only 23 now remain in South Wales.

Last Thursday's decision to allow the demolition of the Theatre Royal in Barry to build 42 "extra-care" flats was the latest blow for independent cinemas in the area.

While 3D blockbusters stun audiences at the multiplex chains, the independent movie theatres of Cardiff are struggling to hold their place in the modern entertainment world.

Cardiff historian Brian Lee, of Pontprennau, feels the decline of independent cinemas means losing a great part of Cardiff's past.

"Cardiff has lost a lot if its character from …