MULTI-MILLION pound work to bring Chippenham's cinema into the 21st century is very close to completion.

Phase one of the £2 million project to transform the Reel Cinema into a modern five-screen multiplex which began in May was completed on Tuesday, with three new screens with new seating, and a new foyer area in the downstairs of the cinema on Marshfield Road opened to the public.

The cinema is owned by family run business Reel Cinema, who bought it to expand and improve the business.

"The project was in our minds for at least six years but we were working out how we can do it. It was ready to be done for a long time", head of operations Muhammad Faisal said.

"In stage one we have done the three screens downstairs, the foyer, the toilets, the concession area and the outside."

Luke Findlay, who became general manager in 2015, said: "The cinema was always my little baby, my pride and joy.

"This restoration is the ultimate show of trust put into me.

"The cinema certainly had character but the refurbishment was needed.

"For a lot of people it had the original look since they were young, but it was time we moved into the 21st century.

"With this we are giving back to the community and surrounding area.

"It is also a way of investing into the community and building better relations.

"This is the heart and soul of Chippenham as their isn't much to do in the town."

The disused section of the ground floor which was once a bingo hall and a disused shop became frontage for the cinema and provided three new screens a concession stand and toilets.

The canopy outside of the cinema has been removed and signage has been given a new, modern look.

The revamp means more films can be shown of a wider variety to cater to everyone, and there is a larger range of food and drinks available for cinema goers.

Mr Findlay added: "I am extremely excited about the future, but not just me, the staff are part of it too, and the community. It is their cinema, they have supported us through the ups and downs of the refurbishment.

Mr Faisal said: "People have been so supportive of the refurbishment.

"They have supported us through and through, and because of this support we have managed to do this project."

Phase two which involves refurbishing the two cinema screens upstairs will begin next week, and it is hoped work will be completed in November.

Leader of Chippenham Town Council Sandie Webb, said: "We have waited for years to welcome a modern multi-screen cinema into our town and at last it has arrived.  The Town Council is greatful for the investment of Reel Cinema in Chippenham and look forward to working with their cultural offing alongside our diverse entertainment programme."

Town Councillor Melody Thompson, said: "People in Chippenham have been desperate to see our beloved independent cinema restored for many years. It’s proximity to the town centre means people can still enjoy a meal or drink out locally with friends and family, giving another boost to town centre restaurants and pubs. I’m sure many parents will be delighted that their children have access to a quality cinema they can walk to from most homes across the town."

Antony Bulley, Managing Director of Strakers and chairman of the Chippenham BID added: "The refurbishment of the cinema is a great boost for Chippenham, providing an added dimension to the town's evening and night-time economy. It also demonstrates that our town is a place that businesses want to invest in."