Cillian Murphy's Dingle cinema plans delayed

Cillian Murphy's plans to redevelop the Phoenix cinema in Dingle have been appealed.

The cinema, which was purchased by Murphy and his wife Yvonne McGuinness in 2024, was orginally opened in 1919 before closing in 2021 during the pandemic. The couple received approval to refurbish from the Kerry County Council in February, however the final decision is now up to Coimisiún Pleanála, after local residents have made several appeals.

The couple's proposed plans include retaining the Phoenix's function as a cinema, while expanding the space to include a performance space, exhibition areas, studios,  a bar, café, restaurant and a redesigned courtyard. The redevelopment project has already secured €933,000 in Government funding.

Locals objecting to the project argue the community does not have the space to accommodate such a venture, with some arguing the space should be reserved for housing instead.

Murphy holds a personal connection to the area, with his family spending holidays in Dingle regularly.

The planning commission is set to decide on the appeal by July 27.