New cinema for Ely moves a step closer as developer unveils plans
The site of the possible cinema, in Downham Road, Ely. - Credit: Archant
A Cambridge-based developer has unveiled plans which could see a cinema and leisure development built on the outskirts of Ely.
The leisure centre was approved by the council in 2010 but has failed to materialise - Credit: Archant
Turnstone (Ely) Ltd has approached East Cambridgeshire District Council with a ‘screening option’ for what it has called a ‘leisure development’ next to Ely Rugby Club, in Downham Road.
It is understood that the development will include a cinema.
The Downham Road site had previously won planning permission back in 2010 for a £12million pound leisure centre but, with no funds forthcoming, the council has been unable to progress the project.
Now, it is hoped, under the control of Turnstone, the project for a cinema could be progressed without the need for capital expenditure by the council.
But the plans will have to progress past the screening option stage first, before a full planning application is forthcoming.
A screening option is becoming an increasingly popular tool used by developers to see if a site requires a costly environmental impact assessment, whereby they would be obliged to assess and potentially mitigate the harmful environmental impact of the development.
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A decision on the application is expected within the next month.
