Board members who oversee historic properties in Fayette County met with designers who hope to build a multiplex theater in downtown Lexington.
The Architectural Review Board looked at plans and had questions answered by legal and design teams working for Look Cinemas, the Dallas based company hoping to build a state-off-the art complex including theaters, an IMAX screen, restaurant and underground parking at West High Street and South Broadway. Sarah Tate echoed the sentiment of fellow board members who said they liked the design, just not on the proposed block. “I don’t think the scale of it is appropriate for the western suburbs. I don’t rule out other sites but what I have the most difficulty with in this whole proposal is that it further weakens the edge of that neighborhood.”
The sticking point is a historic home that sits on the property. The home, built in 1808 would have to be removed to make way for the theater. Architect Brian Hill who is working on the project said the company’s intent is never to disrupt historic districts, but feels this location would be best for the project. “We have looked at other sites for many reasons, usually parking, they have not worked out. This site has all the components that I look at and that’s why we landed there and the rest of it is what we’re here about tonight, is how it affects the community.”
Despite concerns about the plans, Look Cinemas say they will return and make a formal application and seek final approval for the project.