Colchester Council has issued an update on the ongoing Cineworld saga as it works towards securing a new business to take on the site.

It was revealed earlier this month that Cineworld would not be coming to Colchester’s Northern Gateway Leisure Park, just off the A12.

For the last few years, Cineworld was earmarked to join the multi-million-pound leisure park and was going to be its crowning jewel.

It was going to be a 12-screen complex, but due to Cineworld’s ongoing financial issues, a restructuring plan was confirmed at the end of September.

Another image of the leisure parkAnother image of the leisure park (Image: Newsquest) Colchester Council leader, Councillor David King, spoke to The Gazette about the future of Northern Gateway Leisure Park and how the authority was in “serious discussions” with two cinema operators.

Now, Colchester Council has revealed that interest in the leisure park “remains strong” with four operators now in discussion with the authority. 

There has also been “significant” interest from potential tenants for other vacant units at the park.

Colchester Council is hoping to secure a cinema operator in time for an expected resurgence in the cinema industry by summer 2025.

Resident Hayley Dowman, 53, of Stanway, adores going to the cinema, and is pleased about the interest and has shared her thoughts on which operators would fit the unit.

She said: "That's great news, I would love a new cinema. I go all the time with my autistic son.

"Vue would be great, Odeon would be okay, as the city centre one is very old and dirty."

Not coming anymore - an image of a CineworldNot coming anymore - an image of a Cineworld (Image: Matt Crossick/PA Wire) Councillor Mark Cory, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resources, said: “The level of interest in the Northern Gateway site over the last few weeks has been very promising.

“I remain confident that, with the Cineworld issues behind us, we can deliver an excellent destination for entertainment, leisure, and dining at Colchester Leisure Park.

He added: “The UK economy has been struggling, and the cinema sector has been further impacted by Covid-19 and subsequent industry strikes.

 It has also been a tough time for councils, as we no longer receive any revenue funding from Government.

Councillor Mark CoryPleased - Councillor Mark Cory

“Projects like this not only bring fantastic entertainment options for our residents but also create jobs for the local economy and much-needed income to help balance the books.

“With new cinema operators on the horizon, we’re on track to make the park an even better destination for families and visitors.”