AN upmarket cinema chain looks set to open its first screen in Lancashire at the Holmes Mill leisure complex.

Bosses of the Everyman chain have confirmed they have signed a lease for a new venture in Clitheroe.

Last week Ribble Valley Council also received a licensing application from the London-based chain for the Holmes Mill site.

Work has already been ongoing within the Greenacre Street site to make way for the Everyman, which has made its name by offering more stylish outings to the pictures.

Popcorn and nachos have been replaced by comfy couches in the auditoriums and bespoke food menus, and arthouse offerings jostling for space with the latest Hollywood blockbusters.

In a trading announcement to the Stock Exchange, Everyman confirmed it had signed four new leases, with Clitheroe joining Manchester, Plymouth and Northallerton in the next phase of their expansion plans.

The operator says that it hopes to have its Ribble Valley cinema open by the end of the year.

An Everyman spokesman added: “The directors maintain a positive outlook for the cinema industry and for the company in 2019.

“Audiences continue to enjoy film, and specifically the Everyman experience.”

Their latest openings have included sites in Altrincham, Liverpool, Glasgow and London’s Crystal Palace.

Bosses at Holmes Mill have already teased the prospect of the silver screen coming to the location, which now also boasts a boutique food hall, as well as the beer hall and gelateria.

Late last year a spokesman said: “We think Clitheroe deserves a place to enjoy great films in beautiful surroundings.

“That’s why we’re creating our very own cinema in the Boilerhouse area of Holmes Mill. With an intimate feel and stunning decor, our cinema will be the ideal place to indulge in some big screen magic.”

Several past pop-up cinema nights have been promoted there.

The licensing application by the Everyman is to allow alcohol to be served there until 2am every night. The last cinema in Clitheroe was The Civic, which now trades as The Grand.