A CINEMA boss hopes a new arthouse venue will allow film buffs more choice.

Curzon Cinema has applied to move into Roman House on Queen Street, Colchester, more than two years after discussions began with Colchester Council.

The move would see huge structural changes to the building, which was once part of the Keddies department store, and be a major part of the town’s art quarter alongside Firstsite, the Minories and the new Creative Business Centre.

Curzon’s director of cinema development for Robert Kenny said he was delighted things were moving forward on the project to make Colchester the home of their twelfth venue.

He said: “We are very excited to be coming to Colchester, we feel there is a pent-up demand for a Curzon Cinema there.

“The current lack of cinema choice in Colchester, combined with the local council's plans for a Cultural Quarter told us Colchester was a place for a Curzon.

“We have worked very closely with the council to overcome legal problems which delayed the project and we would like to thank the council for their assistance in bringing this idea to fruition.”

Mr Kenny added if planning permission was rubberstamped by Colchester Council, then the cinema was likely to open early next year.

The plan includes space for two restaurants on the ground floor of the cinema, but there is currently no indication what they are likely to be.