A POPULAR part of Southampton's entertainment scene has closed its doors for the final time after more than 20 years.
The Odeon cinema - the last surviving part of the Leisure World complex off West Quay Road - screened its final film yesterday.
Plans to redevelop Leisure World have prevented Odeon from extending its current lease.
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- Pictures from Leisure World, Southampton through the years
As reported in the Daily Echo, 650 homes, two 150-room hotels and 80 serviced hotel apartments are due to be built on the site, along with restaurants, offices and a new cinema.
The £250m scheme, from developer Sovereign Centros, is expected to create 1,000 new jobs - and work could start as early as next year.
Royston Smith, Tory MP for Southampton Itchen, said: "It’s a shame to see the end of the Odeon at Leisure World.
"I have spent many hours there with my family watching blockbuster movies like Bond, Star Wars and Pirates of the Caribbean.
"While it's sad to see the days of the Odeon come to an end it gives an opportunity for something new and vibrant to be created.
"I hope and expect the re-development will give as much pleasure to locals and visitors as Leisure World has for many years."
Cllr Satvir Kaur, leader of the Labour group on the city council, added: "Like most from Southampton, I have fond memories of Odeon Cinema.
"Being a huge movie fan I was there with my sisters and friends most weekends growing up.
"I won't miss the sticky floors but will miss the free extra popcorn if staff there were feeling generous.”
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