Cinema complex plans win go-ahead

Council chiefs say a cinema will boost the "vitality" of the town

Detailed plans for a new multi-million pound cinema complex have been approved by town planners.

The decision paves the way for a seven-screen cinema complex and foyer in the heart of Newbury, Berkshire.

The site of the current Market Street car park at the Kennet Centre has been earmarked for the development, which will also include restaurants.

People in the town were left without a picture house when the previous local cinema closed in 1998.

'Major boost'

The plans by Shops Etc, the owners of the Kennet Centre, also include new public toilets and walkways to the shopping centre and town centre.

The council says the scheme would still leave free spaces in the nearby multi-storey car park.

Councillor Sally Hannon said: "The proposed scheme will be a major boost to the vitality of the town.

"It will bring economic, social and cultural benefits and greatly enhance the emerging cultural quarter of Newbury.

"There has been huge public support for a cinema here, backed by retail studies showing significant need for a modern multiplex in the town."