PLANS for a new cinema in Minehead have been given the green light - and it could be open early next year.

Somerset West and Taunton Council has approved plans for S&B Cinemas to open a new three-screen venue in The Avenue.

The cinema would go into the former Lifestyle Warehouse building.

Hugh and Beryl Scott, owners of S&B, will be receiving the keys shortly, and hope to be opening the new cinema by Easter time 2020.

The pair already run two successful cinemas, one in Burnham on Sea, where they live, and the other in Frome.

Mr Scott said: "We are really chuffed to have received planning permission.

"We are in the process of beginning to start the work.

"We hope to be open next year, around Easter time.

"I've been in the cinema industry for most of my life, me and my wife are directors of the company."

Their latest cinema, Westway, opened in 2017, so the experienced couple feel confident about bringing the new venture to Minehead.

Minehead residents have been left without a nearby cinema since the Butlins facility closed itself to the public in 2017.

Nearly 100 people commented on the planning application, stating it would be a 'great asset' for the town.

Minehead Town Council and the Chamber of Commerce also backed the ‘wholly positive’ project.

Graham Sizer, chairman of the Chamber, said:

"This is brilliant news for Minehead. 

"The Chamber along with Minehead BID want to see the town as vibrant as we can. 

"We live in a tourist town and sometimes the summer weather is not kind. Drawing family visitors in on those days will benefit every trader. 

"The centre of town is now livening up."