Tiger Woods and Justin Timberlake have received approval to transform an old cinema in St Andrews into a sports bar.
T-Squared Social will convert the New Picture House Cinema into a high-end bar featuring sports simulators, duckpin bowling, and darts, while also keeping two cinema screens.
According to Fife Council, the application from real estate company Nexus Luxury Collection, in which Woods and Timberlake have stakes, will help “preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area.”
The redevelopment will create around 40 to 45 new jobs.
The owners of the cinema expressed in planning documents their support for the bar project, stating that without a change to the site, the New Picture House would have to close as it currently operates at less than 10% capacity and is no longer financially viable.
The proposal for the bar aims to offer the people of St Andrews a wider range of cinema, dining, and entertainment options, essential for the sustainability of cinema in the area.
Woods mentioned that the idea for T-Squared Social came about during a golf round at their Bahamas development. He reminisced about playing at St Andrews during the 150th Open Championship in 2022, which he felt could’ve been his last visit.
Having had many memorable moments in St Andrews, the 15-time major champion hopes that T-Squared Social will become a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors.
Timberlake, a golf enthusiast, has also played at St Andrews, including participating in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in 2019.
Christopher Anand, the CEO of the firm, stated, “We are committed to preserving and honoring the historical architecture and design of the theater while continuing its tradition of showcasing great films.”
He also emphasized that the project would breathe new life into the location, ensuring the bar operates seven days a week.
The cinema, which originally opened in 1930 with a seating capacity of 700, will retain significant architectural elements, such as the ceiling, walls, and stage, during the conversion. Development must commence within the next three years per the project approval terms.
