A Futuristic Temple of Pleasure Under Threat
Forty years after it revolutionised British cinema, The Point in Milton Keynes faces an uncertain future. The building, which opened as the UK's first US-style multiplex, is now at the centre of a fierce battle between local campaigners and developers who want to demolish it for a new housing scheme.
From Cinematic Pioneer to Derelict Landmark
When The Point opened its doors four decades ago, it represented a radical departure from traditional British cinemas. Its striking design featured a mirrored glass ziggurat and red pyramidal frame, blending Maya and Egyptian motifs into what many described as a futuristic temple of pleasure.
The complex boasted ten screens, bars, restaurants, and even introduced the then-unheard-of luxury of cup holders on seats. Opening with popular films like Back to the Future and The Goonies, it welcomed over one million visitors in its first year alone.
This commercial and architectural shot in the arm came at a crucial time for British cinema. By 1984, the number of cinemas nationwide had plummeted to just 660 from about 4,800 at the start of the Second World War. The Point's success sparked a multiplex revolution across the UK.
The Fight for Preservation
Today, the situation couldn't be more different. The Point's decline began around 2000 with the arrival of Milton Keynes' larger Xscape leisure complex, which effectively 'out-Pointed' The Point. After struggling through several ownership changes, its cinemas closed permanently in February 2015.
Now owned by Galliard Homes, the building faces demolition to make way for a 21-storey apartment block containing 487 flats. Although Milton Keynes city councillors unanimously rejected an original £150m proposal in July 2024, Galliard has since won approval on appeal.
Labour council leader Peter Marland condemned the decision, calling the proposed scheme 'terrible in almost every single way' and accusing developers of showing 'complete disregard for the unique heritage of the city'.
The Twentieth Century Society describes The Point as 'the most historically important cinema built in Britain since the golden age of the 1930s'. Remarkably, only one postwar British cinema currently has listed status.
Milton Keynes Council is now seeking legal advice to challenge the planning appeal, while Historic England assesses whether The Point should be listed. The building currently has a Certificate of Immunity preventing listing, but this expires next year.
Emily Darlington, MP for Milton Keynes Central, emphasised that while the site has fallen derelict, 'the complete demolition of The Point would be a considerable loss to our local heritage assets'.
As the battle continues, campaigners remain hopeful that this piece of cinematic history can be saved for future generations, proving that some landmarks are worth fighting for, no matter their age.
