Showtime for flagship new cinema

ALMOST there . . . work is nearly complete

2 More Image(s) In Gallery

OLDHAM'S new cinema will open to movie goers in the flagship old town hall development on Friday, October 21.

Oldham Council has revealed the date and a grand opening event that evening which will showcase a fitting tribute to Oldham's past and an inspiring glimpse into its future.

Celebratory

It kicks-off a celebratory weekend boasting a wide range of family activities, music, attractions and performances with a cinematic theme.

The council has also agreed terms with another restaurant tenant and says an announcement will follow soon. They will be joining other top brands Costa Coffee, Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Loungers and Nando's in the venue ­- with more to come.

Work to convert the historic Grade II-listed building into a seven-screen Odeon cinema and restaurant complex ­- taking painstaking efforts to protect its heritage and beauty ­- is now almost complete.

The scheme is central to Oldham town centre's regeneration plans and set to deliver a major economic boost, including new jobs.

Oldham Council leader Jean Stretton said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be able to reveal the date when the old town hall will open to the public.

"People will soon be able to see for themselves all the work that's been going on to protect the heritage and majesty of this old building while also giving it a much-needed modern use.

"The old town hall is going to be the heartbeat of the new Oldham town centre ­- one that has a great offer for families, visitors, business and people of all generations.

"We've decided to open the old town hall just as the school half-term holidays start. Most, but not all, of the new Parliament Square will be complete by then and we took the view that it would be silly not to open at that point and let local people enjoy quality family time there during the holiday break.

"Finally, I'd like to thank all local businesses, motorists and visitors to the town centre for their patience during the construction period.

"The wait is almost over ­- and I'm sure the prize is going to be worth it".

Oldham town centre has been without a cinema for more than 30 years.

The Odeon's new 789-seat multiplex has been built using the latest state-of-the-art technology, including an exclusive ISENSE screen, which allows guests to enjoy blockbusters on the venue's largest ultra-high definition screen in luxury seating and with cutting-edge Dolby ATMOS sound to deliver an immersive experience.

Paul Dagg, general manager at Odeon Oldham, said: "It's fantastic to see the cinema taking shape at the old town hall.

"Anticipation for the opening is at an all-time high, and many people are already excited about upcoming blockbusters.

"The historic nature of this building means this will be a truly unique experience for residents and we look forward to welcoming many guests from October 21 when we open our doors."

The old town hall development is already attracting regional and national attention ahead of its opening.

On Friday a team of judges from the GM Chamber of Commerce's Property and Construction Committee were the latest visitors to the site.

They were assessing the project's nomination for their Building of the Year 2016 award. The winner will be announced on October 20 ­- the day before the development opens to the public.

Just two restaurant units remain available at the complex.

For all letting enquiries contact Dan Davies at Metis Real Estate Advisers on 0161-359 4306 or email ddavies@metisrealestate.com.