Cillian Murphy, Yvonne McGuinness Get Planning Permission for Dingle Phoenix Cinema

Actor Cillian Murphy and artist Yvonne McGuinness have been granted planning permission by Coimisiún Pleanála to redevelop the historic Phoenix Cinema in Dingle, County Kerry. The project, which was initially approved by Kerry County Council and later appealed by local residents, will retain the building’s cinema function while adding a multidisciplinary performance space, exhibition and rehearsal areas, artist studios, a café, bar, restaurant and a redesigned courtyard.

The couple purchased the century‑old cinema in late 2024; it originally opened in 1919 and closed in 2021 after the Covid‑19 pandemic. The redevelopment has secured €933,000 in government funding and is supported by a Category 1 Rural Regeneration Development Fund application. Murphy and McGuinness said the new arts centre will provide a long‑awaited space for the community to gather, create and celebrate the unique culture and heritage of Dingle.