Date revealed for opening of new Basildon cinema

A new multimillion-pound cinema in Basildon town centre is due to open in a matter of days, bosses have announced.

Vue is launching the new cinema in the East Square development, which also includes a number of eateries, on July 25, the chain has announced.

Last month the firm revealed the new cinema would open this summer creating 50 new jobs for the town. The new cinema was due to be opened by Empire Cinemas but the firm went into administration in July 2023.

Vue says each of the ten screens will feature stadium-tiered, luxury leather seating alongside Vue’s recliner seats, high-definition 4K screens, laser digital projection systems and Dolby Atmos multi-dimensional sound in selected screens.

The development of East Square was carried out by Basildon Council in 2017, and cost £26.7 million, under the then Tory administration. Kevin Blake, deputy leader of the Basildon Conservative Party, said: “I think it’s excellent news, we believed it would happen and we had a few little mishaps along the way but it’s going to be a big boost for the town centre.

“It’s also going to be a big boost for the economy all around, we proved critics wrong and said it would happen and open. I am sure it will be a massive success and I am looking forward to it. I will be going to see a film there, having a state-of-the-art cinema in the town centre is more than worth a visit.”

Toby Bradon, general manager of Vue UK and Ireland, said: “We’re excited to be bringing Vue and the magic of the big screen to Basildon – just in time for families to enjoy films during the summer holidays.

“Customers will be able to watch the latest blockbusters alongside the very best of British films, content from around the world and a variety of big screen events.”

The East Square development also includes Nando’s, Orleto Lounge and Kaspa’s dessert parlour, as well as three empty units.