New images offer a first look at reworked plans for a cinema in the heart of Tenterden.

The team behind the project has revealed its ambitions for a screen and “culture centre” in the town centre have now earmarked a potential new site for their plan – but could be facing opposition.

Prospects for any cinema seemed dim after the original £2.6m proposal in the Pebbles building was derailed amid spiralling costs and coronavirus uncertainty.

However, Tenterden Cinema Ltd says it has approached the Highbury Hall Trust over the use of the land on which the hall is situated, between Tesco and the high street.

Tom Evans, chairman of the company, says it is hoped the trust will be willing to discuss the land ahead of the youth hub’s potential move to Tenterden Recreation Ground.

“The existing building is in very poor condition, with the roof propped up with acrow-props following an engineer’s visit earlier this month,” he said.

“We are looking at the concept of a modular cinema and cultural centre, which would include lower design costs.

“This is very much in a dependent stage if you will, there’s nothing certain, but we are very keen to enter into conversation with the trust and Ashford Borough Council about this.”

However, a member of Highbury Hall Trust swiftly rebuffed the news when contacted by KentOnline.

“We have been contacted by the company, but the only contact between us is that we have told them that we are not interested,” she said.

“Even if the youth hub does move, which could be in five or even 10 years rather than one year, for example, we have 26 other user groups who go to the hall.

"They, and we, can’t and do not want to just up and move sticks away from this thriving community facility.”

On the assertion that parts of the building were in “poor condition”, the member confirmed that parts of the roof were being propped up until they could be repaired.

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