ROYSTON’S community cinema project has moved a step closer with the installation of a disabled lift at the town hall nearing completion.

The elevator is being put in as part of the �130,000 programme of renovations Royston Town Council has committed to the project, which is a joint venture with Royston First.

It was noted at the authority’s finance committee meeting that the work was slightly over budget, but the town clerk said the cost had been accounted for.

Susan Thornton-Bjork said: “They have gone slightly over the quote in relation to electricity and plumbing, but it was noted as being liable to change unless they did a complete survey of the electricity supply beforehand.

“We are waiting for a building inspector’s report and also councillors Smith, Davidson and myself will go round to make sure everything’s done and up to standard.

“So hopefully within the next few days we will be able to have it in use.”

Despite the funding previously being approved there was some concern about how much of the council’s expenditure was going towards the project.

Councillor F John Smith, speaking before the lift update, said: “I’m delighted to see this under way but I don’t think we can ignore the fact that certainly the sum is very much greater than anything else on these accounts.”