Plans have been submitted for the expansion of the Empire Cinema in High Wycombe.

The cinemas owners have submitted a proposal which would see the retail unit converted next door to the cinema and would allow an expansion complete with additional screen.

In a statement to Wycombe District Council, Unick Architects said: “Due to the continuing success of the existing cinema building there has been identified a need for additional screens at this time.

“As the existing building is a one off and a complete article as far as the overall design goes it would be advantageous to expand into the neighbouring retail units and maximise the existing services and existing facilities.

“The proposals and choice of materials for the cinema change of use and additional screens will relate to and use existing building materials which will match the existing cinema building to cover all of the roof, external walls, windows and doors.”

The cinema in Cressex was one of the first multi-screen complexes of its kind in this country when it was built in 1987.

Opened as the Wycombe Six on 25th July 1987, the-then 750 seat capacity multiplex was built to replace the ageing Frogmoor Cinema in the centre of the town, as well as the Odeon Castle Street.

Recent footage released from BBC Archive shows a reporter looking around the new complex when it was a state-of-the-art six-screen centre.

Some of the first films featured included Superman IV, The Living Daylights and Police Academy 4.

SEE THE VIDEO BELOW: