NEWPORT'S new cinema is beginning to take shape as part of the city centre's major development at Friars Walk.

The infrastructure of Debenhams and the framework of Cineworld can be seen in the latest photographs of the multi-million pound shopping and leisure development, taken from the fourth floor of the existing Kingsway Centre.

Sixty per cent of the development, which includes 35 retail units, 11 restaurants, 350 parking spaces and a major new bus station and interchange, has now been let.

Huw Thomas, director at retail letting agent Cooke and Arkwright, who have joined forces with Queensberry Real Estate to help market Friars Walk, said that construction work is on track with the complex due to open in Autumn next year.

Next, New Look, Cosmo, Nandos and Prezzo are among the chain shops and restaurants already signed up for space.

The development, which is being backed by a £90 million loan from Newport City Council, is set to provide an estimated 1,200 jobs in addition to the jobs created in its construction.