A historic independent cinema is to reopen later this year.

Rother District Council has given planning permission for the Curzon Picture Playhouse in Bexhill to be turned into a cinema, theatre, bingo hall and jazz club.

Philip Cotterill, who owns the Redstack restaurant opposite the cinema in Western Road, has taken up a 20-year lease on the property, which has been disused for about a year, and says he has plenty of plans.

They include increasing the cinema's capacity from 160 to 220 seats and building a stage for theatre and musical performances.

There are also long-term plans to have a licensed bar and restaurant facilities.

Project manager Nikki Gedney said: "We are looking at a whole lot of things, including using the venue for a kids' club, music, theatre and possibly business and conference facilities as well.

"We are also interested in tying in with education and working with colleges and schools who are doing film and media courses.

"The cinema has always had a loyal following and we want to get it reopened and turned into the hub of the local community.

"We want to provide things for all ages in the town and reflect its diverse community. The idea is to provide a great venue for people without them having to travel further afield.

"The old cinema was not really used to its full potential as it was not open at the weekends, which is usually the peak time.

"We want to make full use of it and tie it in with the restaurant as well. The idea is people can come in for pre-performance drinks or have a meal before going to a show or to see a film.

"The opportunities are endless. We are very excited about the plans and the feedback we have had from people has been very positive.

"People have been coming into the restaurant saying how pleased they are the place is going to open again."

The plan is to reopen the cinema in November and do major refurbishment work in the spring.