Curtains up for Harlesden as Picture Palace returns after £6 million revamp

A historic building in the heart of Harlesden town centre is set to reopen as a vibrant community hub following a £6 million investment from Brent Council to restore and transform the former Picture Palace.

Originally opened as a cinema in the early 20th century, the Picture Palace was once a popular entertainment venue and remains a well-known landmark in Harlesden. Brent purchased the building for £1.9 million in 2019 and has since invested in overhauling the entire building, improving its condition while working with local community organisations to design a facility that reflects what residents want and need.

Refurbishment works began in July 2024 and reached practical completion in December 2025. The project was funded by Brent Council through the Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy, which invests money from local development into new community facilities for residents.

The restored building will provide a range of flexible spaces designed to support community activity, events and local organisations. Facilities include a large multi-use function hall with a commercial kitchen, a café space, meeting rooms and office space.

Through the council’s groundbreaking Market Rent Reduction Scheme, community-based organisation CAVA was selected to operate the new Picture Palace and the heads of terms for the lease was signed this week. CAVA supports voluntary and community sector organisations by offering council-owned spaces at reduced rents, enabling them to deliver services and activities that benefit local residents.

Cllr Mili Patel, Deputy Leader of the Council, said: "This £6 million investment is how we turn our ambitions for Brent into action: putting money back into our local communities, restoring cherished local landmarks and making sure residents in places like Harlesden benefit from modern spaces and new opportunities on their doorstep."

Patrick McKay, Director Phoenix Rising, lead organisation for the CAVA Collective, said: "We are proud to have been entrusted to operate the Picture Palace, and to work with Brent Council to bring this important historic asset to meaningful community use. Our aim is to create a vibrant, inclusive hub offering exceptional opportunities for learning, creativity, connection, community events, local celebration, and cultural activities. We look forward to opening the doors to residents and groups from across Harlesden and the wider area.

"We’re delighted to have been selected to operate the Picture Palace and to work with Brent Council to bring this fantastic space to life. The building offers huge potential for community events and cultural activities, and we look forward to welcoming residents and groups from across Harlesden and beyond."

With building works now fully complete, fixtures and furniture are being ordered. The venue is expected to open and begin hosting activities within the next two months.