FEARS have been raised the opening of Basildon’s new Empire cinema is being “kicked down the road”.

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

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

At a meeting of the council’s prosperity scrutiny committee councils asked when an opening date would be forthcoming.

Susanna Caira-Neeson, who represents Lee Chapel North, quizzed council officers on why the project had stalled.

She said it felt like the opening was being kicked “down the road all the time.”

But council officers said it was down to Empire Cinemas to provide an update which was expected “in due course”.

Ms Caira-Neeson said: “When exactly is the cinema going to be open? Because we keep being told it is next month and then its next month.

“Before Christmas we were told they had now got the projector they wanted and they were now waiting for the next big blockbuster, which of course was Avatar - that has come and gone.

“We just seem to be kicking that down the road all time.”

Council officers said it was not for them to comment on.

They said: “We are in a long-term lease with Empire Cinemas and they are in control of their fit out. They will be making announcements in due course.

“You would not believe the cost-of-living, the energy prices, and the war in Ukraine actually has an impact on something and the supply chain.”

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

Earlier this week Nethermayne councillor Kerry Smith warned it could be “months” before the doors are finally opened to the public.

Basildon Council remains in negotiations with several firms over the remaining units.