Cinema opening marks 'turning point' for centre

A total of 60 jobs have been created as a result of Odeon opening

Shopping centre bosses have said they hope the opening of a new cinema was the "turning point" in its fortunes.

Odeon is due to open its newest venue at Queensgate Shopping Centre, in Peterborough, at 11:00 GMT on Sunday.

The 25,000 sq ft cinema was built with more than 600 seats across eight screens and created 60 jobs in the process.

"It's very exciting and a lot of the retailers are excited for it to be here," said Verity Swinscoe-Wigmore, events and marketing co-ordinator at Queensgate.

The new cinema has 600 seats across eight screens, including an IMAX

The renowned Harry Potter and Star Wars actor Warwick Davis is set to cut the ribbon during the opening on Sunday.

It would follow a difficult period for the centre, following the exit of retailers including John Lewis, Marks & Spencer and Next.

Queensgate bosses hope the cinema will drive increased footfall

Ms Swinscoe-Wigmore said: "It's definitely the new chapter of Queensgate; it's definitely a turning point.

"I think there's a lot of excitement about it."

Queensgate owner Invesco Retail Estate previously said Odeon's arrival would be a "catalyst in its revival".

Suzie Welch, of Odeon Cinemas Group, said being at the "heart and soul" of the community at Queensgate was an attractive proposition for the chain.

"Cinema and film evokes such memories for people and, for us, it's about how we bring people in, the experience we give," she added.