Lights, Camera, Action .... Over To You Empire

---

No more hurdles for Ealing's cinema means work can start when company decides

Ealing's Council Leader says work can finally start on the new cinema after the last bits of paperwork were given approval.

Julian Bell says it should be all systems go now and wants to hear from Empire as to when the work will begin.

Construction on the site, opposite the Town Hall, stalled more than three years ago after Empire planned to increase the number of screens from 16 to 20, including a large IMAX screen.

In July the Council threatened to force the company to sell the derelict site but in September they agreed on changes which did not need new planning permission.

There has been a huge local campaign calling for the company to get on with the build and the Ealing Central and Acton MP, Angie Bray, met CEO of Empire, Justin Ribbons, to press home how much the cinema is needed in Ealing.

There has been consultation with residents' associations, Ealing Civic Society and other community groups and final changes have now been approved.

Council leader Julian Bell, said: "The ball is now in Empire's court, we've now done everything required to make it possible for work to begin.

"I am looking forward to hearing from Justin Ribbons and will hand him a shovel and quite willingly help him start the digging.''

He said the council were hoping to meet with Empire soon.

Empire say their PR agency will be sending out a release in 'the next few weeks'.

November 22, 2011