More than 3,000 people have backed plans for a cinema in an Angus town.
Montrose residents said a resounding “yes” to the proposals in a new survey.
More than 3,100 locals and school pupils were questioned, and 99% of them said they would like to see a cinema in their town.
The survey results will help the group behind the Montrose Playhouse Project demonstrate the demand for the cinema to potential investors.
David Paton, a member of the project group, said a business plan will be finalised imminently.
He added: “This will allow us to progress on to the next stage, which is seeking a community asset transfer from the council for ownership of the building.
“From then we will apply for lottery funding. It’s quite exciting now, it’s starting to build momentum.”
The scheme, which would see a former swimming pool transformed into a cinema, won the approval of Angus Council earlier this year.
Mr Paton praised the community for their help in demonstrating the need for the facility. The first survey took place online, which attracted a response from 1,100 people.
Additional surveys of primary and secondary pupils took place with the help of Councillor David May.
Mr Paton said: “The teachers and schools are all very excited about the project. It’s not just for recreational use, but educational programmes for the schools.”
The poll revealed that 94% of those surveyed regularly go to the cinema, but have to travel to Aberdeen or Dundee.
Mr Paton said the cost-saving element was part of the reason plans were well received.
He added: “It’s quite expensive for a family to visit the cinema in Aberdeen or Dundee. It can be a £100 round trip, once you’ve paid for travel, expensive tickets, food and drinks.
“Ticket prices at independent cinemas are about £6.50, which in these times will be a lot more affordable, especially if there’s a cinema on our doorstep.”