Above shows what the new "Dolphin" will look like.

From the Dover Express, 18 September, 2008.

Report by Rhys Griffiths

PLANS to convert the derelict former "Snoops" nightclub into a pub could create 16 jobs.

JD Wetherspoon hopes to transform the run-down Castle Street building, originally the Granada cinema when it opened in 1931, into a bar called The Dolphin and build 13 flats above it.

The company's blueprint for the future of the site has been submitted to Dover District Council, prompting hope the long-running saga surrounding the landmark may be coming to an end.

But the firm, which also owns the "Eight Bells" pub in Cannon Street, must now wait for its plans to be approved before the builders can move in.

A spokesman for the chain, which operates 702 pubs across the country, said: "Wetherspoon is keen to develop the former nightclub into a pub and we await the planning committee's decision."

Hopes the plot was to be rejuvenated were raised in May 2007 when the company first put forward plans for the site, but the application was later withdrawn.

Cllr Nigel Collor, whose Castle ward included the former cinema, has been vocal in calling for JD Wetherspoon to proceed with the redevelopment. He said: "I have, seen this latest application and it looks exciting. I'm hopeful this time we will see something done with the building."

From the Dover Express, 17 September, 2009.

Report by Yamuri Zendera

Derelict nightclub may now be sold

'It would be great to have something to be proud of'

THE future of the derelict former Snoops nightclub remains uncertain after owners JD Wetherspoon admitted it may be sold rather than transformed into a pub and flats.

The firm withdrew its application to build a pub called the Dolphin with 13 flats above it in Castle Street, Dover, towards the end of last year.

No official reason was given for the withdrawal of the proposal, which was expected to create 16 jobs and finally see the run-down building, originally a Granada cinema when it opened in 1930, brought back into use.

A JD Wetherspoon spokesman said the firm is now assessing a number of options.

She said: "We have received some interest with regards to someone purchasing the site. We are considering our options at the moment and appraising offers and development costs."

A source told the Express the current economic climate may have played a part in the company withdrawing its application and not counting out a possible sale.

He added: "If it's left for another winter, God knows what condition it will be in next spring."

Hopes that the plot was to be rejuvenated were raised in May 2007 when the firm put forward plans for the site, but like last year, these were later withdrawn.

Councillor Nigel Collor, whose Castle ward includes the former Snoops building, said: "When it was originally opened in 1930 it was the jewel in the crown of the Granada empire and Sidney Bernstein brought many people to see this splendid building.

"It would be great to see something here again that Dover could be proud of."