Beloved London cinema The Prince Charles remains at risk of closure by landlords

The Prince Charles Cinema remains at risk of closure, as it reportedly heads to court with its landlords. In early 2025, the Soho landmark launched a petition that stated it was under “serious threat”, adding: “We are beyond disappointed that our landlords Zedwell LSQ Ltd, and their ultimate parent company Criterion Capital have demanded the inclusion of a break clause in our new lease”. They went on to explain that a break clause could leave them “homeless with only six months’ notice should they receive planning permission to redevelop the cinema”. The petition can be found here, and at the time of writing has amassed over 167,000 signatures. Industry figures such as Paul Mescal and director Edgar Wright have spoken out in support of the venue, as part of mass support that led to the cinema being designated as an “Asset of Community Value” by its local council last May. Now, however, London Centric reports that no resolution has been found between the cinema and its landlords, meaning the two parties will head to court in early September. Owner Ben Freedman told the outlet: “It feels to us that every way possible there is to slow it down and make it more expensive is chosen.” Nev...