A multimillion pound development aiming to regenerate the heart of a market town is a step closer to opening after clearing the final hurdle in its construction phase.
The 17-month building project on the Riverside development in Thetford was completed this week, with developers confident it will meet its autumn opening target.
Built by Farrans Construction on the former Anchor Hotel site in Bridge Street, the £8m development comprises a 62 bedroom Travelodge, The Light Cinema and five food outlets – the tenants of which are yet to be revealed.
Waterfront landscaping on the site, which overlooks the Little Ouse River, is now complete – with Captain Mainwaring again sitting contemplatively on his bench – and the car park on Old Bury Road is in operation.
The ambitious project is being spearheaded by Breckland Bridge, a joint venture between Breckland Council and The Land Group.
David Winch, The Land Group director, said: 'This is a huge step forward for Thetford and the surrounding region. The Travelodge is in the process of opening and The Light Cinema will open its doors during the middle of November and will announce shortly some epic new movies which will be a treat for film fans.
'The waterfront landscaping is now looking beautiful and car parking is fully functional.
'We are really pleased with how the whole leisure complex is looking and are sure Thetford Riverside will become a very popular destination.
'The amalgamation of a state of the art cinematic sensation, eating out and having a good hotel to stay in is great for Thetford.'
Phil Cowen, Breckland's executive member for growth and commercialisation, said: 'It won't be long before the cinema, hotel and restaurants throw open their doors to the public and the site becomes alive with people making the most of these new leisure facilities in the heart of Thetford.
'The project is a clear demonstration of our commitment to supporting the regeneration of Thetford and it will provide a catalyst for further successful business growth in the town and across Breckland.'
Mr Winch said the developers are still in 'close negotiations' with national retailers to fill the restaurant/café units on the site, with the first restaurant operator expected to be announced soon.
He added: 'On behalf of Breckland Bridge, our joint venture partnership, we would like to thank Farrans Construction and the associated development team for delivering the project on time and firmly on budget.'
What do you think of the Riverside development? Email bethany.whymark@archant.co.uk
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