Plans for an £8 million cinema development in Newtownabbey have been given the green light.

Hammerson Ltd was granted planning permission by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council for the major work which will provide over 70 full time jobs.

A disused brown field site on Old Church Road will be converted into a multi-screen cinema and a cafe/restaurant.

Welcoming the decision, Committee Chairman, Councillor Henry Cushinan said: "This is a fantastic investment in the Borough's economy that will provide an exciting new entertainment facility for Newtownabbey and create over 70 new full time jobs. The new development will occupy a key location next to the Abbey Centre Shopping Centre, creating a truly family-orientated offer for residents and visitors to the area.

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"This latest investment will bring an element of trade that will extend into the evening, creating a strong daytime and evening attraction for the area. It will regenerate a site that has been derelict for a number of years and also bring much needed construction jobs to the area both during construction and after completion."

(JG/MH)