A MUCH loved cinema in Belsize Park is opening its doors next month under new ownership – promising to be a real addition to the community. The Everyman group bought the Screen on the Hill in Haverstock Hill in March.

A MUCH loved cinema in Belsize Park is opening its doors next month under new ownership - promising to be a real addition to the community.

The Everyman group bought the Screen on the Hill in Haverstock Hill in March.

Now the independent cinema chain is finally bringing its unique touch to the area having already run the successful Everyman cinema in Hampstead for years.

Everyman boss Karen Wood said: "Before, the two cinemas were competing with each other which wasn't good for anyone.

"But now Everyman Belsize Park will complement our cinema in Hampstead village."

Controversially, the Belsize Park cinema will not have a conventional canopy showing film times but will rely instead on stylish plasma screens and its friendly staff to tell people about what is showing.

"We want to try to do something different," added Ms Wood.

"Some of the things we do might not work - but it's about trying new things.

"We want to find out what the community wants and give it to them - this is more than just a cinema."

The cinema will never show the same films at the same times as the Hampstead Everyman.

It will also continue the extremely popular Scream! events already taking place in Hampstead where mothers can bring their babies for a film outing.

The Everyman's systems manager Jesper Larsen said: "It will transform the area - the whole community that surrounds it.

"It's about people coming and having a good time - not just turning up, watching the film and then leaving. We want people to come and drink in our bar and talk to people.

"As for films, we want to have a good mix of mainstream features along with art house offerings and short films."

As well as offering cutting-edge technology, including electrical reclining seats in the auditorium and the chance for viewers to buy their tickets beforehand with their mobile phones, the cinema will also have a relaxed feel.

There will be a cafe and a cocktail menu and waitresses will come and take viewers' food and drink orders before the films start.

The venue will also have full baby changing facilities and disabled access.