Italian restaurant chain Prezzo could be the latest big name coming to Sittingbourne as part of the town’s multi-million regeneration.

The news comes just days after The Light Cinema company was confirmed as the firm behind the planned eight-screen movie complex.

An official from the London-based restaurant company said: “Prezzo is keen to open in Sittingbourne and is interested in the project and is reviewing the situation.”

The U+I company, which is part of the Spirit of Sittingbourne consortium behind the regeneration project, said announcements would be made shortly about big names coming to the site.

Project director Robert Sloper said: “We’re currently talking to a number of restaurants and have agreed a deal with two national operators.

“We will make an announcement as soon as everything is finalised.”

Starbucks opened a shop in the High Street just before Christmas, while Costa Coffee and Marks & Spencer have already confirmed plans to open branches in the town.

At a full council meeting on January 27, Swale council leader Cllr Andrew Bowles formally announced the deal with cinema company.

When asked about what big names were coming to the town he said: “The last time I spoke to the Spirit of Sittingbourne, two restaurants had been signed and another was probably about to be signed. We can expect an announcement shortly.”

A spokesman for Swale Council said: “Negotiations are ongoing to bring a number of household names to Sittingbourne as part of the regeneration of the town.

“These are progressing well, and we will make further announcements once final agreements are in place.”