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London's Land Securities plots IMAX extension in Ashford

An up and coming Kent town could potentially be graced with only the second IMAX screen in Kent if planning permission is approved.

London’s Land Securities, who are masterminding the scheme, are planning to expand the Cineworld site in Ashford to add a further three screens, including a new IMAX screen.

Located at the Eureka Leisure Park near junction 9 of the M20, the development is part of a raft of regeneration projects in the Kent town, which include a second £75m six-screen Cineworld cinema at Elwick Place in the town centre.

In a separate development, it has also been announced the new town centre cinema will be operated by Cineworld’s boutique brand, Picturehouse, in a move that likely sets out to differentiate the two cinemas.

Commenting on both developments, Kevin Frost, Property Director at Cineworld, said: “We’re committed to bringing the best cinema choice to our Ashford customers and that means providing both an out-of-town multiplex experience at Eureka, which will include new IMAX and 4DX theatres, and an in-town boutique cinema offer with a best-in-class tailor-made food and beverage service at Elwick Place.”

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, added: “That such a high-profile operator as Cineworld has submitted plans for an IMAX at Eureka, in addition to the complementary six-screen Picturehouse cinema which is planned at Elwick Place in the town centre, illustrates that Ashford continues to attract significant investment by major investors and is seen by them as an integral part of their business models.

“Of course it’s imperative that due planning processes are now adhered to regarding this application at Eureka.”