MULTI-MILLION pound plans to convert an historic cinema into apartments have finally been given the green light.

Proposals to overhaul the dilapidated old Odeon cinema, in Crouch Street, Colchester, were given the thumbs up by a council planning committee in October.

But a final decision on the exact details of the scheme, and on what contributions the developers would make to the town, was left to officers.

Blumarble Property, which is behind the £10 million plans to create 57 apartments, has now been given the final green light.

The plans will see the front of the building, including the street-facing facade, converted into 11 apartments while the main auditorium will demolished to make space for a new building which will house 46 more flats.

Gazette: Old odeon new plans crouch street

The historic facade will remain but will undergo a significant clean up and restructure.

The plans have been welcomed by businesses in Crouch Street.

Paul Stephens, who runs Two Brews, opposite the well-known building, said: “Crouch Street, and I suppose this part of Colchester, has really become a space for independent and individual businesses but I think the problem is, it hasn’t really appealed to people to come down here.

“If you regenerate this end with the Odeon - as well as the public realm stuff they’ve done on the western side, it would give a whole new perspective to this part of town.

“The development could really have a phenomenal impact on us, as well as the whole of the town centre.”

Gazette: Old odeon new plans crouch street

Mr Stephens, who opened the specialist beer and coffee shop two years ago, added: “I’ve also noticed the Odeon takes so much attention away from the rest of the street.

“I could be in here, shouting a waving about how great these beers are and people would still walk past looking at the Odeon saying: ‘Isn’t it sad what’s become of that old building’.”

Liam Glouster, who runs the Bull pub, in Crouch Street, added: “This would have a huge impact on us.

“People have always talked about what the state of that building does for Crouch Street, so to have it all rejuvenated would be amazing.

“I don’t even think the impact would stop here in Crouch Street. The rest of the town would feel it too.”

Previous proposals for the site included opening a night club but no scheme has ever got off the ground.

A residential scheme is considered the most financially viable.