A CINEMA giant has finally signed on the dotted line to seal the deal as part of a forthcoming multi-million pound leisure complex.

Cineworld has officially been added to the Northern Gateway Leisure Park’s growing line-up of facilities and businesses after years of anticipation.

The entertainment company, the world’s second biggest cinema chain, will manage 12 screens featuring Superscreen and 4DXcapabilites.

The cinema site will also play home to a large foyer which will accommodate a Starbucks coffee shop area.

Travelodge bosses have also signed a contract agreeing to expand its plans for 80 proposed rooms to 90, while restaurants Wendy’s and Greggs will now each boast a drive-thru on the site.

Echo:

The ambitious development, spearheaded by Turnstone Estates, was granted planning approval in December by Colchester Council.

The building of the 200,000 sq ft network of leisure provisions, to be located south of the A12’s junction 28, will get underway in the new year.

Sue Lissimore, deputy leader of Colchester Council responsible for resources, said: “We are delighted these brands are committed to coming to Colchester, in what promises to be an exciting development.

READ MORE: Wendy's and Greggs added to Northern Gateway Leisure Park line-up

“This progress furthers our ambition to transform the Northern Gateway into a hub for improved wellbeing, physical activity, jobs, housing and renewable energy.

“It is a key part of our commitment to boosting the local economy and helping our borough recover following Covid-19.”

The project has already secured a 20-lane bowling alley from Hollywood Bowl and a Puttstars indoor golf centre.

Jump Street will also be opening a climbing centre and agreements are in place for Fastned to provide eight high-power electric vehicle charging bays.

Seven restaurants, a landscaped piazza and 750 parking spaces are also part of the blueprints.

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Chris Goldsmith, managing director of Turnstone Estates, added: “These signings reflect demand for this state-of-the art leisure scheme.

“Despite the recent pandemic we are delighted to welcome Wendy’s and Greggs to the line-up and accommodate a larger offering from Cineworld and Travelodge.”

“We expect to announce other lettings and a contractor shortly and start work on site in the New Year.”

The Turnstone scheme for the Northern Gateway Leisure Park forms part of a wider development delivered by Colchester Council and its Colchester Amphora companies.