WODONGA councillors will consider a proposal for a large cinema complex worth about $50 million at a meeting on Monday.
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Under the development, a cinema with 10 theatres and more than 2000 seats, six restaurants, drive through food outlets and entertainment centre would be built.
The project, which has been put forward by developers Central Place, would have a bar, karaoke rooms, function areas and two basement level car parks with 334 spaces.
A site on the corner of Elgin Boulevard and Smythe Street has been earmarked for development as part of the Junction Place precinct.
The 26-metre high development would be located next to an area of the precinct currently undergoing a redevelopment.
The proposal is supported by council staff.
“The development of a cinema based entertainment facility on this strategic site central to Wodonga’s central business area will help in council’s aim to redevelop the central business area into a robust centre with increased economic, cultural and community activities,” a report notes.
“The cinema development will act as an anchor tenant and key attractor to visitors to the central business area, broadening the central business area’s appeal to residents and visitors to the North East.
“It is considered that the proposal represents an excellent development outcome from a building design perspective, particularly in respect to the ground floor elements.”
Plans to build an eight-screen cinema in Wodonga had been raised in the late 2000s.
Staff have recommended the project receive a planning permit.