St Modwen bags cinema operator for Kirkby
The developer has agreed a deal with Reel Cinemas to operate the 15,000 sq ft six-screen cinema proposed as part of the redevelopment of Kirkby town centre.
The scheme will replace the former library on Newtown Gardens and will feature three restaurant units, currently being marketed by joint agents Colliers International and Cheetham & Mortimer. More than 500 people attended a two-day consultation event last month held at St Chad’s Parade, with 196 comments of support received from residents as St Modwen showcased its plans for the area.
Paul Batho, projects director at St Modwen, said: “Securing Reel Cinemas is positive news for the future of Kirkby town centre. Recent feedback from local people tells us that the current leisure offer is seriously lacking. There is a huge opportunity to develop this in line with responses received and we are confident our proposed plans will make a significant difference in transforming the town.
“We’re currently in talks with several national operators regarding the restaurant units and hope to make further announcements soon.”
Chris Morgan-Giles, property director of Reel Cinemas, said: “We’re continuing to expand our operations with plans to grow the brand significantly over the next five years. This is a great scheme to be involved with.”
