THE first pictures of what Redcar's new Regent cinema will look like.
The seafront cinema is almost complete and is expected to open this summer.
The last fittings are going in, as paving is installed around the exterior of the building, canopies and balconies receive their finishing touches and painting and decorating continues inside.
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BAM Construction Ltd is working on the scheme and is expected to be off site by mid-March.
Over the next month, as work reaches a conclusion, a process of testing all mechanical and electrical systems will be taking place, including heating, lighting, kitchen equipment and toilet facilities.
And last week, audio-visual tests in the screen rooms were carried out.
The council is currently looking for an operator to run the cinema, and is expecting to award the contract in June - in time for a summer opening.
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Councillor Chris Gallacher, Redcar Borough Council's cabinet member for economic growth, said: “We are delighted to share the most recent, up-to-date images of the progress at The Regent. The building is shaping up beautifully in terms of functionality and aesthetics, and the audio-visual tests were superb.
“As the tendering process continues, we are highly optimistic that all is on track for a summer opening. Part of the tendering process will involve selecting operators who have a fantastic offer and fair pricing – we want The Regent to be a place that anybody can enjoy for the long term.”
The £9.7million facilities have been funded by the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority.
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Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “It’s fantastic to see the progress being made on the Regent Cinema which, when complete, will undoubtedly become a huge draw for those living in Redcar and visitors alike.
"As well as investing in large-scale investments to create good-quality, well-paid jobs for people across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool, this development shows how our funding directly improves the lives of local people.
"The cinema will have a wider benefit too, getting people into the town and spending money in our brilliant local businesses.”
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