A CINEMA at the heart of a North Yorkshire town’s £25m redevelopment will open its doors for the first time to the public tonight.

The seven-screen Empire Cinema is part of the Princes Gate Complex and also includes a new hotel, retail outlets and restaurants.

The shopping outlet in the centre of Britain’s largest “super garrison”, was officially opened by the Queen’s cousin, Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester, last month, who unveiled a plaque to commemorate the occasion.

At a VIP opening event on Thursday, general manager Dave Thomas, said: "Before we opened the only alternative people in this area had if they wanted to go to a multiplex would be to drive upwards of an hour.

"It's great not just for the people of Catterick, but for the surrounding area and rural areas who have never been catered to by this kind of service before. It's going to be great to welcome everyone in."

Mr Thomas praised Cerys Styles, 16, who pleaded the case for the cinema to the council.

Cerys, who was at the event, said: "I am really proud of playing a part in this. There was just nothing for young people in this area.

"We really needed something to help improve the town and keep people in the area when they grow up and have children of their own. It's great."

Colonel Mike Butterwick of Catterick Garrison, who was on hand to cut the ribbon, added: "This fantastic development changes for the better what it's like for those serving in the Forces, and their families, who are living in Catterick Garrison."

It has been 18-months since Richmondshire District Council approved the controversial plans for the new state-of-the-art cinema.

Concerns had been raised about the future of The Station Cinema in Richmond should it be given the go-ahead, and also the effect the retail outlet may have on existing Catterick shops.

The council originally voted against the plans, which lead to a petition signed by thousands of Catterick Garrison residents showing their overwhelming support for the development.

Details also emerged of the area's Local Enterprise Partnership plans to bid for up to £1.75m in Government cash to improve roads in the area if the scheme was approved.

As a result the Princes Gate cinema was approved in a subsequent council meeting.