London-based group Stanhope has confirmed that a six-screen Odeon cinema is to form part of Hereford's Old Livestock Market leisure and retail development.

The proposed cinema will be the only digital multi-screen venue within a 25-mile (40.2km) radius of the city and will also possess 3D capability across all screens. Odeon will keep its existing Hereford single-screen cinema open until the launch of the new multi-screen facility, which will also be able to show sporting events, live music and opera.

Alistair Shaw of Stanhope said: "Having listened to what the people of Hereford have told us, we know how much a new cinema is desired locally and we are really pleased to be able to announce Odeon as our first operator." Odeon property director Ken Taylor added: "In line with our overall focus to grow our business we have always wanted to expand in Hereford and this is the best and most viable city centre site to improve our service to the Hereford market."

Stanhope was appointed by Herefordshire Council to lead the Old Livestock Market development, which will also include restaurants and retail units.