Movie chain donates old downtown theatre building to Brandon University

BRANDON, Man. – Landmark Cinemas has essentially donated an old downtown movie theatre and the property it sits on to Brandon University.

The purchase price for the deal to take over the former Strand Theatre will cost the university just one dollar.

Neil Campbell, the CEO of Landmark, is a 1973 alumnus from the university.

Brian McIntosh, executive chairman, says he and Campbell were thrilled to be able to give back to the community “in a small way.”

He says they will both watch with interest to see what plans the university has in store for the site.

University president Gervan Fearon says the acquisition will help the institution become a catalyst for community growth and development and play a role in the revitalization of Brandon’s downtown area.

“Brandon University is moving to expand our role in community-based research as well as co-op and experiential education,” says provost Steve Robinson. “A presence downtown can allow us to strengthen these links, forge new ones, and provide a full spectrum of study and research opportunities.”

The new location will also provide the university community with new and better access to civic amenities.

“Students know that life doesn’t start and end at the campus limits,” says students’ union president Nick Brown. “Whether it’s working a part-time job, finding a coffee shop to study or write a paper, or socializing in the evening, downtown Brandon offers a lot for us.

“We’re excited to see the plans as they develop, and happy to work with faculty and administration to find the best use for this needed space. We already have some ideas, such as student residences and student family housing, which would be ideal given the location right across from Princess Park and recreational facilities.”