High-Rise Condos To Replace Iconic Newport Beach Movie Theater

NEWPORT BEACH, CA — One of Newport Beach's longstanding movie theaters is set to be replaced by high-rise housing as it nears the end of its closing date.

The Newport Beach Planning Commission voted unanimously on Thursday to approve a plan to demolish the movie house, known for its iconic Art Deco marquee and wide screens, and replace it with a pair of residential towers.

Plans for the roughly four-acre site include two almost identical 22-story towers that will stand at about 270 feet tall.

The towers will house condo units between two-to-four bedrooms, including penthouses, but no affordable housing, according to the city.

In addition to housing, the proposal outlines home officers available for sale to residents, retail and a cafe.

The replacement of the Big Newport movie theater, which opened in 1969, evoked strong feelings from residents during the city's Planning Commission meeting.

"Now we will only have the Lot in Newport Beach," Dr. Denise Bonner wrote in a public comment. "The Port and Lido Cinema do not show recent films."

Planning Commissioners in favor of the proposal, however, said they hope the project will help to revitalize the Newport Center, a business, shopping and entertainment district by Fashion Island.