WORK is progressing on target on an entertainment venue development on the site of Durham's last mainstream cinema.

The near £2m-conversion will see the former Robin's Cinema in North Road become the latest in a national chain of more than 40 Walkabout Australian-theme bar/restaurant complexes.

Regent Inns won a controversial licence appeal against police and residents' opposition following a lengthy hearing at Durham Crown Court last November.

The cinema closed after the Christmas/New Year period and workmen moved straight on to the site to begin the major overhaul of the building.

V & A Projects of Newcastle is carrying out the development on behalf of Regent Inns, having previously worked for the London company on its venues in Middlesbrough, Leeds and Edinburgh.

Project manager Jimmy Floyd said despite some structural problems which have had to be overcome, the building is on target for completion in June, prior to a scheduled opening of the 700-capacity premises in July.

"We are working to an eight-week timetable to have it ready by around June 9, then that gives Regent time to train and familiarise staff, take deliveries and prepare the kitchens, so it's immaculate in time for the opening. It is still all subject to the final licence being granted once the statutory inspections have been made."

Mr Floyd said despite the misgivings of some local people he believes Durham will have a high quality city centre night spot.

"We're talking about a major British plc here. I think the people of Durham will be pleasantly surprised and if anyone has any doubts they should visit the Middlesbrough Walkabout to see what I'm talking about."

Walkabout will open six nights a week until 1am, but as part of the provisional licence approval, it must meet a number of conditions.

The company has pledged to co-fund late night buses to help to clear city centre streets of revellers.