A consultation on the future development of the former ABC Cinema site in Tunbridge Wells begins next month.

Closed in 2001, the old multiplex was demolished in 2014, leaving a gaping hole in the town centre.

Altitude Real Estate Limited acquired the plot around April of this year from the Carlyle Group, who had been planning to create a hotel and shopping complex.

Now the privately owned company is seeking residents' views on what should happen next.

Located just 100m from the town's railway station, the ABC cinema site is prime real estate that has attracted significant public interest over the past 15 years.

In 2009 planning permission was granted for a 250,000 sq.ft mixed use development consisting of retail, restaurants, offices, hotel and parking.

This was never followed through and later lapsed.

Altitude are preparing to submit a new planning application later this year.

Stephen Tillman, director of Altitude Real Estate Limited, said: “We would be delighted to welcome residents, stakeholders and businesses to drop in over the 2 days to view the display and discuss the options with our team, before leaving any comments and opinions they may have.

“We had many visitors at a previous session held earlier this year at the Trinity Centre and the feedback received from local people at that event has already been used to develop the plans that will be exhibited. We believe we can positively transform what is such a prominent location in the town and want residents of Tunbridge Wells to have their say.”

The public exhibition will be held in the Main Hall at the Camden Centre in Market Square between 2pm and 8pm on Thursday, October 6 and Friday, October 7 from 3pm and 8pm in the Victoria Suite.