The first films at a new cinema in Basildon town centre will be shown next year, it has been revealed.

Basildon Council has confirmed the new cinema, on East Square, will coincide its opening with February half-term in 2022.

Empire will be handed the keys to the building in July.

This comes despite delays to the construction of the site thanks to the Covid pandemic.

The date was announced at a council meeting on Tuesday.

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Speaking about the new venue last year, Empire's chief exec, Justin Ribbons, said the facility would be “at the heart of the community”.

The site is set to have the new cinema - which will have 10 screens - plus a £25 million leisure development with bars and restaurants being constructed.

Mr Ribbons said: “Despite the current difficulties caused by the pandemic across the leisure and hospitality sector Empire Cinemas is excited to be coming back to Basildon and we feel that cinema will remain at the heart of the community and are looking forward to opening.

“Cinema is the key to regeneration and is a popular activity for all ages.

“We will be running parent and baby screenings and other initiatives that will appeal to a large cross section of the community.”