First look inside the Kingsgate Leisure cinema complex

Work on the redevelopment of the Kingsgate Center in Huddersfield is well underway as pictures show what the new cinema looks like.

The former House of Fraser store has been removed and is currently being converted into a leisure complex, including a six-screen cinema, operated by The Light.

Redevelopment work on the three-storey, 90,000 sq ft facility began on Monday, March 6 this year, with a target opening date of September 2024.

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And it looks like progress is coming along nicely, as Kingsgate Shopping Center has shared a sneak peek into the exciting new centre. Posting on its official Facebook page, the mall shared a snap inside one of the soon-to-be cinema screens.

The caption reads: “You’ve seen the outside, now here’s a look inside Kingsgate Leisure. This will be Screen 5 (of 6) for The Light. Front row or back row?”

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It wasn’t long before residents flooded the post with comments about the city’s exciting new addition. Tony Kelly wrote: “Brilliant, about time we had a cinema back in town and a multiple screen is great. Odeon is ok but not very accessible for disabled and elderly people as there is no public transport to it, you have to get there. Leeds Road and go all the way up not too well.”

Ben Chapman agreed: “The Odeon is ok if you just want the cinema. Having this in town means people can go for a meal/drink before or after the cinema. It will be more modern etc.”

Fran Wilson added: “I’m looking forward to its completion!”

Kingsgate Leisure will be operated by The Light, which already manages 12 other venues across the country. The Light will offer six cinema screens and 10 bowling alleys, alongside what it describes as “a variety of other leisure activities and food offerings”.

Kirklees Council is committing £250m to its ten-year vision to reimagine the town center and has provided a £7m loan to make the Kingsgate project a reality.

Keith Pullinger, founder of The Light, said: “We are delighted to be opening in Huddersfield and offering residents a great place to engage in fun activities and experience exceptional cinema.

“Our spaces are known and loved for providing a place to bring friends and family together, providing entertainment, whatever the occasion.”