New cinema complex for Ashington town centre

Another key milestone in the regeneration of Ashington town centre has been achieved, with the submission of a full planning application for the proposed development of the Portland Park Cinema.

Working on behalf of Northumberland County Council, Advance Northumberland has secured commitment from REEL Cinemas who are delighted to be part of an exciting cinema led development that will transform Ashington town centre. This project brings together significant funding from UK Government, Northumberland County Council and Advance Northumberland.

The proposed development is for a new five screen cinema with entertainment area and associated restaurants, landscaping, and car parking. The cinema is to be operated by REEL Cinemas on a 25-year lease. A previous planning application for this site was approved in 2020. This permission has since expired, and the development now proposed includes significant improvements both physically and operationally.

Alongside a five-screen cinema, REEL Cinemas will incorporate a family-friendly competitive socialising area and entertainment space where families and friends can connect, relax, and enjoy quality time together.

This announcement follows the recent investment including the completion of the rail line which reopened to passengers for the first time in 60 years, and the £36m transformation of Ashington Town Centre gathering pace with major works to demolish Wansbeck Square underway, kick-starting a number of improvements around the town.

Deputy Leader of Northumberland County Council and Cabinet Member for Supporting Business and Opportunities, Councillor Richard Wearmouth said: “There is significant ongoing investment into Ashington, and we all want to see progress at Portland Park.

“The leisure plans would add to existing schemes like the new Northumberland College Campus in the town centre and the new rail station and development of Wansbeck Square.”

Sunil Suri, Owner & CEO, REEL Cinemas said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing movie magic and a vibrant, family-friendly space to the heart of Ashington. Our heartfelt thanks go to Northumberland County Council and Advance Northumberland for their support and collaboration in making this vision a reality”.

This project is part of the Regeneration Ashington Programme to grow, renew and connect the town delivered by Northumberland County Council with support from Advance Northumberland.  The programme is funded by UK Government including through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the County Council, North East Combined Authority and Advance Northumberland.