A new multi-million pound cinema is set to create 50 jobs when it opens “later this summer”.

Vue has been preparing to open in East Square, Basildon as part of a wider development in the Essex town’s centre.

The BBC previously revealed the vacant site had been costing Basildon Council £60,000 a month for security and other services.

“Vue has begun the recruitment process to appoint a team of nearly 50 people to welcome its customers this summer,” a spokesman for the chain said.

The new cinema was due to be opened by Empire Cinemas before the firm went into administration in July 2023.

Under Vue’s scheme, details have shown that a total of 10 screens would feature tiered seating with “high definition 4K screens”.

The development of East Square was carried out by Basildon Council in 2017, at a cost of £26.7m.

Toby Bradon, Vue’s general manager in the UK and Ireland, said it was “wonderful” to see the site near completion.

“We’re excited to bring Vue to Basildon in time for families to enjoy films during the summer holidays,” he added.