Apologies for radio silence since the public meetings. Much frustration was vented at the public meetings over the Council's secrecy and poor performance on the Guildhall. Since then there has been a decidedly more constructive tone adopted by the Council. The Regal Cinema, who run the cinema at the Unicorn, have been in negotiations with the Town Council for the last couple of months, and this morning the Council posted a joint statement that they are now close to reaching an agreement. This will entail the Abbey Hall reopening to the public in the summer as a Cinema and Live Events venue. Full details in the attacked link: http://www.abingdon.gov.uk/abingdon-news/abingdon-thames-town-council/plans-cinema-abbey-hall We still await a decision on the demolition of the staircase and the longer term plans for the Abbey Hall remain a concern, however today's announcement is a great step forward and, assuming no final stumbles in the process, is to be warmly welcomed. Thank you to everyone who signed this petition and attended the public meetings. I am convinced this pressure has directly resulted in this change of heart by the Council. I will keep you informed on any subsequent developments and as greater clarity appears on the other matters.