DOORS to the new cinema in Marlborough could be open by Christmas after the project to turn a derelict church into a film house was given the green light.

The former United Reformed Chapel will be sound proofed and kitted out with the latest technology to become a 108 seat, two tiered cinema that will screen both classic and new releases.

Orlando Harris, one of the men behind the project, said: “The support for the cinema has been overwhelming and it is brilliant news that planning permission has been granted. It is empowering to have had so many positive responses. Marlborough deserves to have these new facilities and a cinema. It will change the dynamic of the town.”

Planning permission has been granted by Wiltshire Council after the town council backed plans for a cinema.

Councillor Nick Fogg said: “People have wanted this for a long time. We welcome it as a great feature to the town.”

The cinema will be on The Parade and owners hope to open by the end of the year after securing the final funding needed to turn the plans into a reality.