BID Fort William welcomes the news that Highland Cinema has officially completed its move to charitable status, recognised by the Scottish Charity Regulator from 1 February 2026.
This is a positive step for Fort William and one that matters for levy payers, as Highland Cinema is a key part of the town centre offer and a strong driver of footfall, particularly in the evenings and quieter months.
Highland Cinema brings people into the town centre year-round, supporting nearby bars, cafés, restaurants and shops. Its role has become even more important since other cinemas in the wider area have closed.
Charitable status helps secure the cinema’s long-term future, giving reassurance that this important attraction will continue to operate and evolve. For local businesses, that stability matters.
As a charity, Highland Cinema can now apply for a wider range of funding and work with new partners. This creates opportunities to invest in programming, events and facilities without relying on local businesses or additional public funding.
For levy payers, this means:
All of this helps strengthen the overall visitor experience without adding pressure on the BID levy.
The cinema employs local staff and offers a regular programme of films and events throughout the year. This supports local employment and helps maintain activity outside the peak season, which benefits the wider evening economy.
The new charitable structure also brings a Board of Trustees with a mix of business and sector experience, supporting good governance and long-term planning.
BID Fort William supports activity that improves footfall, strengthens the town centre and helps local businesses thrive. A stable, well-run cultural venue at the heart of Fort William plays an important part in that picture.
While the BID does not fund the cinema, developments like this create opportunities for partnership working and joined-up promotion that can benefit levy payers.
BID Fort William will continue to work with town centre partners, including Highland Cinema, to look for opportunities that support local businesses and add value to the town centre.
This is good news for Fort William and a positive sign for the future of the local economy.
