The anticipated start date for construction is September 2006. Providing there are no last minute hitches, the cinema should be open for business by Christmas 2007.

The project has been bugged by delays and problems, but all parties concerned are now extremely confident that from now on everything will proceed smoothly.

The scheme will provide for a six-screen multiplex on the site of the existing Cheap Street car park. The cinema will be operated by Apollo Cinemas following a £500,000.00 subsidy agreement with West Berkshire Council.

J D Wetherspoon are also believed to be in the frame for one of the restaurant/bar facilities in the new complex. Other potential tenants are being kept a closely guarded secret, although newbury.net understands that there is keen interest for the remaining units.

Today’s news will bring a sigh of relief to the 10,000 local residents who signed the cinema petition organised by local resident Jane Hawkins, way back in the Summer of 2002.

Mike Rodger, a former Mayor of Newbury and independent councillor for Victoria said he was “Absolutely delighted” “It is news that everyone in Newbury will welcome and it will be a tribute to everyone in the town who have contributed so much to moving this project forward.”