The cinema was built by a group of local businessmen, who commissioned the architect Hurley Robinson.

[2] It seated 945, in stalls and circle levels, and it opened on 10 October 1932, showing the film The Silent Voice.

[3] The listing text comments that "Robinson had designed over 55 cinemas before the Regal, but this is a rare survival and the most architecturally significant."

The corner entrance is flamked by reeded columns with lotus leaf capitals.

[3][5][6] The Regal screens films and also stages live events; it holds exhibitions, and there is a coffee shop and wine bar.