Empire Latest - Building Work To Start in August

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We could have a cinema by 2014

It's the news we have been waiting and hoping for... we think.

Empire say work is due to begin on the derelict Ealing cinema site in two months time.

Yesterday, Ealing's Council Leader, Julian Bell, sent Empire's Chief Executive, Justin Ribbons, a final letter saying steps would be taken for the council to issue a compulsory purchase order (CPO) for the site.

Ealing Today has received a news release (1/06) from Empire's PR firm, House PR.

It reads:

''Since Empire Cinemas was given approval on minor amendments to the proposed work in December 2011, the company has been hard at work completing the detailed design & construction drawings, finalising plans and detailing the interior of the cinema.

''Empire Cinemas is pleased to announce the appointment of Clarkebond to oversee the management of the building project and recruitment of the design team. The necessary tendering process required to commence mobilisation on the work is now nearing completion, with construction scheduled to move forward in August, fully on target with timelines on projects of this ambition and scale.

''Empire Cinemas has always, and continues to be, fully committed to building a first class cinema for the residents of Ealing and will continue to expedite the necessary and appropriate steps towards optimal regeneration of the existing site.

''As the company takes firm steps towards an opening date in early 2014, negotiations are at advanced stages with a number of restaurant operators, eager to share in the opportunities presented by Empire Cinemas’ investment in Ealing.

''We thank the residents of Ealing for their patience to date, as we take the next exciting steps towards a new world class cinema for everyone to enjoy.''

Ealing Council has cautiously welcomed this latest news.

Council Leader,Cllr Julian Bell said: " I hope this is for real as we have been disappointed before. The pressure of a CPO seems to concentrate Empire's mind so we will keep it there until we see action not just words from them.''

One positive indicator that this time the promises may just be true is that Ealing is finally featuring on Empire's website.

The advert ' Coming Soon', boasts 20 screens, 1 impact, 7 studio screens, Fully Digital/3D and various bars and restaurants:

 

 

So, what do you think?

 

1 June 2012