THE new cinema in Basildon town centre will be able to fit 500 cinema-goers inside, it has been revealed.

The East Sqauare development, which will feature the 10-screen Empire cinema and restaurants, is well underway in time for opening early next year.

The cinema will be able to squeeze 500 people inside once it opens in February half term.

The new leader of and deputy leader of Basildon Council took a tour around the town centre development, shown around by contractor McLaren.

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Leader Andrew Baggott, said: "The progress on this scheme is exciting and the cinema and restaurants will breathe new life into this part of the town centre.

"We want East Square to become a real destination of choice for our residents, and this complex will be a place where residents can do more than just shop.

"They can spend the day and the evening here; shopping, dining, and seeing the latest films.

“Basildon is open for business, and this transformative development that will bring a new night-time economy to the town centre, will play a major part in an exciting vision for its future."

Deputy leader Tony Hedley added: “East Square will be a vibrant development, which will bring a new lease of life into the town centre while boosting trade for local shops and providing new jobs for our residents.

"We look forward to exciting announcements regarding the major businesses that will fill the restaurant complex in the coming months.”

Paul Kerry from McLaren Construction, added: "We’re proud to play a part in this exciting East Square development that will be brilliant for Basildon residents.

"It’s a very attractive building, in the heart of the town, with great transport links.

"I’m looking forward to popping down to see a film and grab some food once it’s all open."