Cinema given the go ahead in Orpington

Local residents and those seeking property to rent in Orpington are set to benefit from another community amenity in the near future.

Bromley Council has given the go ahead to plans for a mixed use development, which will include the area's first cinema in 30 years.

The £10 million investment project will see the Walnuts Shopping Centre upgraded with a number of new facilities, including retail and restaurant units and an improved public square.

Of course, the seven-screen 950-seat cinema is likely to be the main attraction given that until now, Orpington residents have had to travel to other parts of the borough of Bromley to catch a movie.

Under the plans, the existing market will be relocated to the adjacent College Square.

And to give the Walnuts Shopping Centre a facelift, a glazed frontage for the loft of the cinema will be built and two new mature walnut trees will be planted outside.

Councillor Peter Dean, chairman of the development control committee at Bromley Council, said the scheme will provide much improved facilities in the heart of the town centre

"It will enhance the public amenities in the local area and provide a good mix of retail and leisure," he remarked.

Peter Morgan, executive councillor for renewal and recreation, added: "This landmark development shows a positive step forward for Orpington town centre and expands on our vision to Build a Better Bromley. 

"The scheme will not only bring 130 new jobs to the area but will also increase vital footfall, ensuring the vitality of the area and benefitting existing businesses and residents."

The Walnuts Shopping Centre is already home to around 30 retail outlets and eateries, including big brand names like Argos, Subway, Wilkinsons, New Look and Dorothy Perkins.

At the moment the open air market is held on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays beneath the glazed atrium of the central external square.

Posted by Chris Price

Published 27th September, 2012

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