Jerusalem's Historic Orion Cinema to Be Demolished, Rebuilt in New Complex
Translated & summarized from Haaretz by baba
Jerusalem's District Planning Committee approved a plan to redevelop the historic Orion Cinema complex, including two residential towers and a hotel. The cinema will be rebuilt with its facade preserved and will host cultural events. Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio criticized the plan, warning that the city's character will be permanently lost.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- Jerusalem's District Planning Committee approved the Orion Cinema complex redevelopment plan.
- The project includes two residential towers, a 12-story hotel, and a public square.
- The historic Orion Cinema will be rebuilt, preserving its facade.
- Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio criticized the plan, citing loss of Jerusalem's character.
Jerusalem's District Planning Committee has approved a plan to redevelop the Orion Cinema complex, a historic site dating back to 1938. The project, located on approximately 4.5 dunams between Shamai, HaHistadrut, and Hillel streets in the city center, will feature two residential towers of 30 and 34 stories, alongside a 12-story hotel to be built on the cinema's roof.
While the plan is branded as "preservation," the Orion building itself will be reconstructed. Its facade will be maintained, and it is slated to resume showing films and hosting cultural events. The development also includes a public square surrounded by retail spaces on the adjacent streets, situated opposite the Lifshitz College, which is also designated for preservation and included in the complex.
Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio expressed concern over the project, stating, "Jerusalem's character, preserved for generations, will be lost forever."
