Search for new Galway’s Pálás operator resumes after preferred bidder pulls out
The Expressions of Interest (EOI) process for Pálás Cinema, in Galway city, has reopened following the collapse of negotiations with a prospective operator.
The EOI process will remain open until a new operator is secured. Those who submitted proposals during the previous round will continue to be considered, Labour Councillor Niall McNelis told the Irish Independent.
Cllr McNelis added that he remains “confident that we will have a tenant” emerge from the latest process.
A number of protests took place to keep Pálás open
Pálas opened in 2018 under Element Pictures ownership and operation, soon becoming a UNESCO heritage site for film. The beloved entertainment space closed its doors in February 2025.
A year and a half later, it appeared that Pálás had finally found the one. In February 2026, Galway City Council identified a preferred operator from initial expressions of interest.
While the company was never publicly named, Galway City Council Chief Executive Leonard Cleary described it as a “reputable” operator and stressed that it would not require financial support from the local authority.
However in April, Galway City Council requested to pause the formal announcement to navigate concerns over refurbishment costs. Weeks later the prospective operator withdrew from negotiations.
Part of the challenge lies in the building itself. Designed by acclaimed Irish architect Tom dePaor, the award-winning structure stands out among the historic buildings of Merchants Road with its distinctive contemporary design.
But according to Cllr McNelis, that same design also limits the range of alternative uses that can be accommodated within the building.
“We can’t give it out willy nilly,” he said. “It’s restricted in what you can do with it because of the way it was designed.”
The council is seeking an operator that would prioritise the building’s original cultural purpose, work in partnership with Galway arts and cultural organisations including the Galway Film Fleadh, demonstrate sustainable operating practices and be capable of running the venue without reliance on council funding.
Although Galway City Council has suggested a number of potential uses for the building, including the reinstatement of cinema operations, applicants are encouraged to put forward their own proposals, provided they can demonstrate a “financially viable operational model”.
Details of the submission process are available on Galway City Council’s website.
The Pálás building, ouses more than 300 seats across three screens and includes a box office, bar and kitchen facilities.