The bid to transform Montrose’s former swimming pool into a cinema has been formally approved by Angus Council.
And planning approval to turn the former building on The Mall into a three-screen picture house has been welcomed.
Montrose Playhouse Project co-founder David Paton said: “I’m very happy plans have been approved this is excellent news.
“It is good to see that the council is supporting the project.
“It also shows the public that this is a credible project and there is a lot going on behind the scenes.”
Development standards committee councillors were recommended to approve the plans, which were lodged earlier this year.
Permission was only needed to allow car parking and changes to the building’s exterior, as no change of use is required under planning legislation.
Local councillor Bill Duff said: “It is a significant building in Montrose, if not one of any great beauty.
“It’s an imaginative venture clearly there are a lot hurdles to overcome, but I wish them well.”
Councillor Mairi Evans said she would be pleased if the large building were brought back into use, adding: “It’s an attraction that will be unique to Angus, and will draw a lot of people in.
Councillor Alex King welcomed an “exciting concept” that would have the fringe fiscal benefit of saving on demolition costs.
Previous committees worried over the disposal of a building that has deteriorated since the town pool moved to Montrose Sports Centre.