Melbourne's Astor Cinema To Be Saved By New Owner

St Kilda's Astor Cinema has a new owner, according to a news report posted by the Caulfield Glen Eira Leader today.

The art deco cinema has been bought off St Michael's Grammar School by self-professed cinema lover Ralph Taranto who previously refurbished the George Cinema in Fitzroy St (in a complex that once housed infamous '80s band venue Seaview Ballroom).

Taranto told the Leader, "The Astor will be refurbished inside and out."

A support group had been created to save the heritage-listed building with the cinema's admirers concerned that it would fall into disrepair and be closed.

A spokesperson for the Friends Of The Astor group described the sale as a win for the community.