ROYSTON’S derelict cinema site is set to be developed with plans for over 20 houses and flats being finalised.

The Priory Cinema site, which was also home to a restaurant and swimming pool, has sat empty since 2008, with several development schemes falling flat.

But now North Hertfordshire Homes says it is close to finding a solution, with the help of Royston Town Council.

Kevin Thompson, North Hertfordshire Homes chief executive said: “We have now produced an outline plan and are due to have final consultation with Royston Town Council next week.

“After that we will draw up detailed plans for a planning application in the new year.

“The scheme will be for 24 houses and flats for sale, shared ownership, and rent.”

North Hertfordshire Homes was originally planning to build sheltered accommodation. However, because of problems securing Government funding, the development was abandoned.

Now the housing assocation has redrawn its plans and is hoping to move forward the scheme previously described as affordable housing.

The site is currently surrounded by a fence and has been secured after a small fire was lit on the site of the former Green Plunge pool earlier this year.

Residents of nearby properties have previously told The Crow they feared the dilapidated site would attract intruders and possibly affect house prices.

Councillors The Crow spoke to this week said they were unwilling to comment until they had seen firmer plans.

One of them, town councillor Marguerite Phillips, said: I can’t make any comment until I have had a had a look at the plans.”