London Borough of Bexley

TOWN’S NEW ATTRACTION TAKES SHAPE

Work on the town’s new library and cinema is making good progress and planning is underway for its opening later this year.

Locally based contractors Neilcott started work early last year and are working hard to get back on schedule after work was delayed due to the impact of COVID on their staff and the construction industry. London Borough of Bexley is working with Neilcott and cinema operators Really Local Group on the development, which includes a new three-screen cinema, library, nine flats, a café, bar and Changing Places toilet facilities.

It will provide community and cultural activities and new homes in the heart of the town and is expected to deliver a boost to the local economy, including restaurants and retail outlets.

The Really Local Group will fit out and run the cinema, a café and bar, together with a flexible event space.

Cabinet Member for Growth, Cllr Cafur Munir said: “I am really looking forward to the opening of the new building, which we expect will attract a wide range of people and inject new energy into the town centre.

“Memories of the old Blockbuster store are fading, but it will be good to see the site serving the needs of the local community again.

”I would like to thank businesses and residents for their understanding while the work is taking place. I’m really looking forward to seeing them in the new building later in the year.”

The project is an important part of the Sidcup Regeneration and Cultural Programme.

The nine new apartments that are part of the development have been designed by award winning architects DRDH.