Work has begun on one of Devon's biggest multiplex's which will fill the space of a former BHS store in Torquay.
Speaking to , Merlin Cinemas boss Geoff Greaves hopes some screens will be 'open before the summer'.
The multiplex got the official go ahead last August when planning permission was approved for the 13-screen cinema, making it the biggest of its kind in Devon.
But it will mean the closure of Torquay's only cinema, the old and dilapidated four-screen Central Cinema in Abbey Road, which is expected to be redeveloped.
Mr Greaves said: "We are finishing clearing the store presently and hoping to start the conversion very soon.
"We hope to be open in at least some screens before the summer.
"Plans and options for the old cinema are still under discussion, but it will close once the new cinema is open and staff will be moved to the new site."
Westcountry-based national cinema chain Merlin, which started in the Westcountry and now has 17 cinemas and a theatre in England and Wales, specialises in rural and seaside cinemas.
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The huge multiplex will be part of Torquay high street's conversion from shops to leisure use.
The cinema will have 13 screens over three levels ranging from 23 to 120 seats and will be allowed to open from 8am to 3am.
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