Odeon bosses 'thrilled' to open city centre cinema

The new 10-screen Imax cinema operated by Odeon is expected to open before Christmas at Queensgate

The first look of a new 10-screen city centre Imax cinema has been released.

Cambridgeshire's first Odeon cinema is due to open before Christmas at Peterborough's Queensgate shopping Centre.

The struggling centre has faced tough times recently after big names left the building. But Invesco Retail Estate, which owns Queensgate, said the cinema would be a "catalyst in its revival".

Odeon Bosses said they are "thrilled" to be coming to the city. The new cinema is expected to create 40 jobs in Peterborough.

Work is currently in progress at the new Odeon cinema at Queensgate

Shoppers have previously said, they had "very little incentive" to come into the centre after the exit of big retailers from the shopping centre including John Lewis, Marks and Spencer's, Next and Body Shop.

Queensgate bosses insist the future is looking "exciting" amid plans to bring a combination of leisure and retail businesses to the centre.

Invesco said the new Odeon cinema alongside the retail giant Frasers, which is due to take over the former John Lewis unit in May 2025, was creating a "positive momentum for Queensgate".

Over the past few months, Queensgate has seen some new business additions including TK Maxx, indoor golf venue Puttstars and Black Sheep Coffee.

Home and lifestyle retailer Sostrene Grene is also due to takeover the former Joules unit on the ground floor and plans have been submitted for the city's first taco Bell at Queensgate.

Frasers, Flannels and Sports Direct are expected to move into the former John Lewis store by May 2025

Previously, Ed Ginn, director of investment management at Invesco, said the centre has had to "grapple with a vacant anchor store [John Lewis] alongside the usual struggles facing the high streets everywhere".

Looking ahead, Mr Ginn revealed five new restaurants would open in the entertainment complex alongside the cinema, with more eateries to come around the centre. No details were revealed.

Suzie Welch, managing director for UKI Odeon Cinemas Group, said: "We're thrilled to join the Queensgate family and bring unparalleled cinematic experiences to Peterborough.

"Get ready to make memories and enjoy our fantastic food and beverage options."