BLACKBURN’S new £6.5million cinema will be a ground-breaking ‘Hollywood meets Bollywood’ fusion, the firm's boss has said.

The ‘unique’ scheme was revealed by the multi-millionaire businessman behind the scheme on a visit to the town yesterday.

Kailash Chander ‘KC’ Suri and his nationwide Reel Cinema chain were unveiled as the operators of the eight-screen independent outlet to be built on the former Waves Water Fun Centre.

The 62-year-old, who came to the UK from Northern India in 1981, has built up a business empire including the growing 15-strong cinema chain which already has a successful venue in Burnley.

Mr Suri has signed a 20-year lease for the building, including three food and drink outlets with a licensed bar, to be constructed by Blackburn with Darwen Council.

He revealed ambitious plans for the project he believes will complement the 10-screen Vue Cinema on the Peel Leisure Park near the railway station.

He said he was ready to make other leisure investments in the town building on the platform the cinema provides.

Mr Suri said: “I have carefully investigated Blackburn, visiting several times, and looked at its demographic make-up with a large South Asian Community.

“The idea is to bring a unique ‘fusion’ cinema mix.

“It will be a Hollywood meets Bollywood meets independent film maker combination.

“There will be two screens showing Asian films and others showing independent and commercial ones.

“The food will include samosas and kebabs and as well as popcorn and traditional cinema snacks.

“There will something for everyone with children’s clubs, pensioner's concessions and £20 family tickets.

“We will show the work local film makers.

“I am looking at further investments in and around the Northgate heritage area including a Laser Quest and Clip and Climb centre and would consider buying the building and freehold.”

Reel Cinemas will pay back the £6.5m capital cost over the 20 years but leave the borough with the freehold unless Mr Suri makes successful bid for to buy it.

Waves swimming complex closed in 2015 after 29 years and was demolished when the new Blackburn Sports and Leisure Centre opened its doors.