A LEADING independent cinema is to benefit from part of a £6m package.

City Screen in York is to receive enhanced technical equipment and will upgrade to digital projection.

The cinema has already installed an improved box office system as part of the deal.

The £6m has been given to City Screen's head office in London by investment firm Arts Alliance, to be used throughout its countrywide network of cinemas.

Arts Alliance has taken a majority shareholding in the company, which is operated by founder directors Lyn Goleby and Tony Jones.

City Screen Limited, which was established in 1989, owns and operates 14 cinemas in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Its strategy has been to invest in university cities where a niche market exists for specialist cinema.

The company plans to expand to medium-sized market towns where there is also great potential for smaller venues with a mixed mainstream and specialist film programme.

Lyn Goleby said: "This investment means we will be able to continue to introduce a quality choice to more people."

Arts Alliance's managing director Thomas Hegh said: "It is our view that the film afficionado welcomes a well-managed cinema with a dedication to quality film."