Work on site at the new Waterfront leisure scheme in Walsall has been on the go now for six months. Developer Kier Property has appointed contractor GF Tomlinson for the project, which includes the new eight-screen cinema designed by Burrows Little for ‘The Light’ and four new restaurants operated by Chiquito, Pizza Express, Bella Italia and Hungry Horse.
Phase one will provide +/- 5,000sq ft of retail and leisure space and phase two will provide a further 14,000sq ft.The £65m Waterfront development has been a resounding success so far, regenerating over 17 acres in Walsall, and the cinema alone will create approximately 230 jobs.
Phil Dove of The Light Cinema commented: “This fantastic project marks the start of an exciting development programme for all of us.” Ian Little, Director of Burrows Little said, "The Light Cinema format is very exciting because of the introduction of the extra large format screens and the new ultra comfort seating designed for luxury viewing. With 1200 seats spread across 8 screens. the Walsall public will have plenty of choice of of films, viewing styles and luxury." Councillor Mohammad Nazir, Walsall Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, said: “We’re looking forward to seeing work start on site and very much welcome the investment and job creation that it will bring. I congratulate the work of Kier, The Light Cinema and their partners for bringing this project to this exciting stage. The scheme is great news for Walsall, making the town centre a more attractive place to visit, and will nicely complement the existing leisure facilities in the Waterfront area.”