A NEW five-screen cinema is set to open its doors in Blackwood on Tuesday, and developers hope it will boost other businesses in the town centre.

Building work at Maxime Cinema, located on the town’s high street and replaces a former bingo hall, started at the beginning of the year.

Nearly all of the 200 tickets sold for Tuesday’s first screening have been sold. It will be open to the public from next Wednesday morning.

The building was purchased before it went to auction in September last year and was handed over to Bognor Regis-based Picturedrome Cinemas.

Local firm Four Seasons Entertainment, who negotiated the deal on behalf of Picturedrome, secured the building’s ownership before it went to auction.

Steve Reynolds, the owner of Four Seasons Entertainment, said: “I think it’s really amazing what has been done there in seven months. I’m just hoping every business in the town will benefit from this.

“We are looking to attract 3,500 people through the doors every week and hoping it will get other businesses and restaurants to invest in the town. I’m very proud that we’ll be programming the films in the cinema.”

Councillor for Blackwood, Nigel Dix, said: “This will help to bring interest for new businesses.

“I’m looking forward to the opening on Tuesday and wish the cinema great success.”

Guests to the cinema’s official opening on Tuesday will be treated to some live music and entertainment ahead of the first ever showing at the cinema – the aptly-named British thriller Blackwood.

A charity event will then be held at the Maes Manor Hotel with more entertainment. All proceeds from the tickets sold will go to local charities.

There are a few tickets remaining for the event. To book your place contact Mr Reynolds on 01495 240700.