A HISTORIC East Finchley cinema has closed its doors for the summer while work to bring back its traditional splendor is carried out.

Ongoing restoration work means the Phoenix Cinema, in High Road, will be shut until September as architects and builders work to complete the £1million project.

Built in 1910, the venue is recognised as the oldest constantly running cinema in the UK, and the overhaul is set to improve the facilities it offers.

Bosses said the work will restore the “unique Mollo and Egan Art Deco interior” of the popular Grade II listed building.

The cinema will reopen after 13 weeks with a series of premieres and special celebrations to commemorate the official 100th birthday.

A new cafe and bar facility will be included in the refurbishment, along with a balcony overlooking the high street and a redecorated main auditorium.

Paul Homer, Chief Executive of The Phoenix Cinema Trust, the charitable trust which runs the cinema, said: “ Londoners love cinema, and The Phoenix is deeply rooted in the cinema-going tradition for generations of North London film lovers.

“Cinema design is also deeply embedded in the fabric of the building, and the way it has been adapted over the years tells the history of cinema in Britain.

“From the ‘talkies’ to the present day, The Phoenix has remarkably remained an independent voice for 100 years. It’s an impressive achievement.”

The Phoenix, which has previously been known as the The Picturedrome, The Coliseum, and The Rex, continued operation throughout two World Wars, survived the 1970s doldrums and the arrival of the multiplexes in the 1980s, and avoided conversion to a Bingo Hall.

Its legion of fans and supporters include its Patrons Mike Leigh, Ken Loach, Maureen Lipman, Bill Paterson, Michael Palin, Mark Kermode and Victoria Wood.

Events to celebrate the re-opening in September will include free tours, free archive screenings, and an official exhibition.

A gala opening is planned for September 16.

For more information on re-opening activities and events visit www.phoenixcinema.co.uk.