A TOWN’S new cinema has been completed ahead of schedule – although an operator is yet to be found for the facility.
Redcar’s seafront Regent cinema is due to be completed today (Monday).
It means Redcar and Cleveland Council will take possession of the building to complete the final fittings before it opens later in the year.
The council is still looking for an operator for the three-screen cinema.
Read more: Redcar and Cleveland Council 'got it wrong' over Saltburn car park extension
Councillor Chris Gallacher, cabinet member for economic growth, said: “There has been a great deal of excitement surrounding the final stages of the project.
"The Regent itself looks stunning inside and out - and now it is crucial that we select the right operator, whose values and vision for the place match our own and those of the people who wish to use it.
“Unfortunately, Covid restrictions have caused some frustrating delays in appointing an operator but, now restrictions have been lifted and things are getting back to normal, it is an exciting time to be discussing the fantastic opportunity the Regent offers.”
Among the factors being considered by the council when choosing an operator are affordable peak time prices, concessions and membership/loyalty discounts, which will be announced in due course.
Read more: Pictures: First look at Redcar's new Regent cinema
The £9.6m project, which is being funded by the Tees Valley Combined Authority, has seen the demolition of the old picture house, which was deemed to be unsafe due to its deteriorating structure and which closed in 2018.
Its replacement is a three-storey ‘art deco-style’ cinema building, which will include a licensed bar with sea views and an events space for the public use.
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