Council supports Merlin Cinemas' purchase of ODEON building

By Amber Hill Reporter

The council are confident that Merlin Cinemas will serve the town well. <i>(Image: Peter Barrington)</i>

The council are confident that Merlin Cinemas will serve the town well. (Image: Peter Barrington)

NORTH Somerset Council are "pleased" following the news of Merlin Cinemas' purchase of Weston's ODEON building.

Merlin Cinemas announced the purchase earlier today (Wednesday, August 9).

Cllr Mike Bell, leader of the council and local ward member, said: "This is great news for the town and I'm really pleased that after such a short period of closure, the cinema will soon be back to doing what it does best.

"I’ve spoken to Merlin Cinemas today and assured them of our support for their work to maintain cinema operations at the building.

"I am confident, with community support, we can embark on a positive and sustainable future for this landmark site.

"Merlin has assured me that they will be valuing and promoting the much-loved Compton organ and the role the building has at the heart of the town centre.

"They're hoping to reopen the cinema again in the near future and will be developing a short and long-term investment plan to improve the building, including the listed features."