FILM fans could get a whole new movie experience this year – now that plans for an open air cinema have been given the go-ahead.

A request for a pop-up, open-air cinema event in Lister Gardens, Lyme Regis, went before the town council last night, where councillors gave it the green light.

The event is due to take place in April and, if successful, will return in September.

Cllr Jeff Scowen said he supported the plan 'whole-heartedly'.

"It's what Lyme needs," he said.

The council heard that similar events have been held across the south coast from Eastbourne to Plymouth, and that company DNT Events Ltd is a ‘well-established organiser, putting on more than 100 open-air events each year’.

A report which went before the meeting last night states: “Typically, these events are attended by 3-500 guests who have either bought tickets in advance or on the night. The film is normally chosen locally in advance from a limited list as part of the pre-event marketing and promotion.

“The cinema screen is inflatable and approximately 8m x 6m in size. The sound system is carefully designed to be high-quality, directional and suitable for outside use.

“If the event were to be permitted then the event organisers would be responsible for all aspects of event management and control. They are experienced in managing such events in large outdoor spaces to which the general public have wider access.”

The report, written by deputy town clerk Mark Green, adds that Mr Green and Cllr Cheryl Reynolds, chairman of the tourism, community and publicity committee, met with the event organisers.

“Both were impressed by their obvious experience of staging such events and their willingness to respond to local issues such as noise and access control,” it states.

“If members were happy to support the event in principle, then the precise details of location, seating arrangements, insurances, etc, would still need to be finalised and agreed. An in-principle indication is required at this stage, however, so that sufficient time is available for pre-event marketing, publicity and promotion.”

Cllr John Broom voiced concerns about the cinema, saying that while he found it a 'good idea', DNT Events must pay to host the events or donate to a charitable organisation as it 'sets a precedent' for others.

The location for the cinema has been suggested as the flat-roofed area above the amusement arcade for the cinema screen, with people able to view from the grassed bank in the Gardens.

The full council met at the Guildhall at 7pm last night.