Kirkcaldy cinema plans back on the table

LaSalle Investment Management, owners of the Mercat Shopping Centre, have submitted plans which would see site of the town’s former swimming pool converted into an eight screen cinema, with more than 1000 seats.

However, it is not believed there is currently an operator to run the venture.

It is expected the cinema and retail would create up around 100 full and part-time jobs.

Development plans say that the building would offer an architectural landmark on the Esplanade.

The report stated: “The first is the creation of a signature entrance tower which not only provides the main access to the building, but creates a landmark architectural feature which contrasts well with the adjacent blank elevations of the Mercat Shopping Centre and Esplanade car park.

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“The colourful and bright column would add interest to the street scene and be an attractive reference point in this location.

“The second feature is the upper floor terrace accessible from the proposed food and drink outlets. This  would provide activity and surveillance of the street, thereby enhancing the public realm and bring life back to the Esplanade at this location.

“It would also take advantage of the attractive views over the Firth of Forth the location offers.”

Four food and drink outlets have also been proposed in the plans, however, it is not believed there is currently an operator planned to run the cinema.

Kirkcaldy town centre has not had a cinema since 2000, when the ABC on the High Street closed down.