The manager of Reel Cinema in Chippenham said major refurbishment work is still going ahead, despite To Let signs outside the building.

Jeremy Hancock, Reel Cinema’s manager, said the advertisements are for neighbours, 92 Marshfield Road, formerly The Service Centre, a TV installation shop which now operates remotely.

Mr Hancock said the number of screens in the former Astoria picture house are still expected to be increased from two to four or five with 3D viewing.

But he added: “There is no definite date (for the expansion work) because all we hear from head office is that we are in a recession.”

To date, two digital projectors have been installed on the first floor of the building to adapt the equipment for 3D viewing.

Two more screens, both costing in the region of £100,000, and 120 seats are due to be set up on the lower floor of the former Angel bingo hall.