RESIDENTS may be waiting “months” for Basildon’s new Empire cinema to open as the scheme looks set to surpass a year since it was supposed to first open.

Empire Cinemas’ £25 million cinema complex East Square was initially due to open in February of 2022 but the date has been repeatedly pushed back.

Almost a year on from when the cinema was first meant to open, and Nethermaybe councillor Kerry Smith has warned it could be “months” before the doors are finally opened to the public.

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“The whole project has been a mess from start to finish and a year on from when it was supposed to open and we still have no new,” the independent group leader said. 

“Last we were updated the firm was waiting for flooring to be delivered and with how many delays there have been so far, I can’t see this thing opening for at least four to five months yet.”

Conservative Pitsea South East councillor Craig Rimmer says the council cannot provide an official update on when the cinema will open as it is Empire's responsibility.

But Mr Rimmer, reposnible for regeneration, insisted the project would still be a sucess: "We already have three restaurants open that are proving very popular on the site.

"There will be more to announce soon, and I believe the cinema will follow soon and be a great success too."

The last update provided by Basildon Council in October claimed it would be “open by the end of the year” – however the council has now backed away from that pledge and has refused to set a date for opening, claiming it is the responsibility of Empire.

Empire Cinema has failed to respond to repeated requests for comment from the Echo.

The cinema, which will boast 10 screens, is set to create 60 new jobs according to the council.

The development includes six restaurant units, three of which have been filled by Orleto Lounge, Nando’s and Kaspa’s Deserts.

Basildon Council remains in negotiations with several firms other the remaining three units

A council spokesman said: “We are in ongoing discussions regarding the remaining three units at Basildon’s East Square development.”