Kentish Express Ashford & District
HOW OUR NEW IMAX CINEMA WILL LOOK
A developer has given a glimpse of how Ashford’s extended multiplex cinema with an IMAX screen could look.
Leisure II Ashford Ltd has submitted the plans on behalf of Cineworld at the Eureka Leisure Park off junction 9 of the M20.
Last week the Kentish Express revealed how the company intended to build three new screens, while it will also be the company responsible for delivering the cinema complex at Elwick Place in the town centre, under its Picturehouse brand.
The developer has submitted a planning application to Ashford Borough Council, which could also see the construction of two restaurants to boost competition at the Eureka site.
The larger of the two restaurants could have room for 216 covers and would be built in front of the Pizza Hut restaurant, while a second restaurant space for 150 covers would be built at the front of the multiplex cinema building.
The new IMAX cinema would be almost twice as tall as the current building, while the distinctive front entrance would also be changed.
However, the plans have sparked objections.
Resident Sally Wilson’s home in Cemetery Lane behind the complex overlooks the site.
She wrote: “It’s the height that I’m objecting to very strongly. If this were to go ahead, it would obliterate mine and my neighbours’ outlook totally.
“I treasure looking out of my windows at the wonderful view of the trees and beyond.”
In contrast, Guernsey Way resident Michael Bodman has posted a comment in favour of the plans. He said: “The sooner the works can commence for all of the proposed units the better.
“This is a welcome addition to the boutique cinema being proposed within the town centre and will give a full choice to all of Ashford and the surrounding towns/villages’ residents.
“Parking will need to be considered as the current development already fills the car park to maximum on some days.”
Transport planning specialists from Vectos were asked to complete a transport survey from data collected in 2014 about parking.
In a report submitted to the council the company states that the car park operates “comfortably” within capacity and also stated that the new cinema won’t lead to a pro-rata increase in customer visits.
The company said new spaces would be created to take the total from 907 to 930 spaces, with new spaces created behind the cinema and also behind the KFC restaurant.
What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford TN24 8JR or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk