The cinema complex itself, which will be run by The Light chain

The proposed £50m Market Quarter development received planning permission yesterday.

The plans include an 11-screen cinema along with five new restaurants and a multi-storey car park.

Preston’s indoor market between Lancaster Road and Earl Street will be torn down as part of the plans.

Councillor Peter Rankin, Leader of Preston City Council, said: “The new cinema is a key element of growing Preston’s leisure offer and making the city centre an even better place to visit, enjoy and stay.

“We’re also looking at up to seven new restaurants and bars as part of the cinema development – bringing yet more vitality and difference to Preston.

“Add to this the huge investments in the former Post Office building, Preston Markets, the Guild Hall, the Bus Station, housing and city living, plus the railway station it is easy to see why Preston City Centre is fast becoming the place to invest, visit and live.”

Developers have said in the past that they would hope the complex would be open by the end of 2020.

Mike Horner, Regional Director for Muse Developments, said: “We are making real progress and are delighted with the planning permission.

“The Cinema and Market Quarter developments are hugely exciting, game-changing in fact for Preston.

“We will now continue to work hard to bring the development to fruition – we’ve already had huge interest from many top national restaurant chains wanting to be part of the scheme, so now’s the time to focus on making it happen.”

MORE: Preston Markets are being redeveloped and new stall holders are needed 

Building work will begin next year with the demolition of the market starting in 2018.

Keith Pullinger of The Light Cinema, added: “This is an important milestone and we are thrilled at the prospect of our ambitious cinema plans for Preston being another step closer. Preston is a fantastic location for us and we are excited by the opportunities in the city.”