Major extension plans for Athlone cinema

Athlone's IMC Cinema is set for a major extension and upgrade if plans lodged just before Christmas are given the green light

The existing six-screen facility in Golden Island could almost double in size, with an additional four screens being planned along with a new restaurant unit adjoining the extended cinema building.

Some 33 spaces in the Golden Island Shopping Centre car park would have to be "relocated" in order to make way for the cinema extension.

The planning application on behalf of Cinema Properties Ltd was lodged by Brian Dunlop Architects, based in Kilkenny, on December 20.

It outlines a proposed development that would include an "internal reconfiguration" of the cinema, the addition of four extra screens, and a new cinema entrance.

The project would require changes to "local car parking, roadway, and hard standing" areas, and would include new signage for the cinema and proposed restaurant. Some demolition work would also be required at the existing cinema building in order to facilitate the extension.

Public submissions on the plans can be lodged up until Friday, February 1, while Westmeath County Council is due to make a decision on application by February 22.