PLANS for new signs at Basildon’s town centre cinema are set to get the green light before the site opens “later this year”.

The long-delayed plans for a ten-screen cinema are set to progress at pace once new operator Vue puts new signs on the outside and re-fits inside of the cinema.

The £25million East Square development has been plagued by delays since Empire Cinema fell into administration last year.

However, after months of talks with the council it was announced last month that national cinema chain Vue would takeover.

Next week, Basildon Council is set to agree next week that plans for the old Empire signs to be replaced on the outside the building in the hope that work will now move forward at pace.

Craig Rimmer, councillor responsible for Pitsea South East ward, and economic stimulus and tourism, was asked if the speed of the application process shows the urgency to get the situation sorted.

He said: “To be honest, I would say and admit we are keen to get it moving for sure.

“But I also suspect it is down to simplicity of the application itself too. It isn’t too complex; it is almost like-for-like.

“But I remain open on the application and will look at the application at the committee next week.”

Once complete, the cinema’s largest screen is set to hold more than 300 cinemagoers, with nine other screens showing the latest films, plus VIP and recliner seating.

Mr Rimmer added: “At this moment, our expectation is Vue want to get on with opening it and I suspect the opening could be at some point this year. I expect they will publish their own timetable when ready to do.

“Vue coming into the town centre will certainly boost the town centre and encourage other food and beverage units to open.

“It would give more confidence to businesses in that area too. It is a very well-known brand, well-established, and very successful. I know people are already excited about the prospect of town centre.”

A When asked about an opening date, a spokesman for Vue said: “We can confirm that we are in formal discussions with Basildon Council regarding a new lease at East Square to bring the Ultimate Big Screen Experience to the area. We look forward to being able to share more information in due course.”