Trowbridge's Odeon insists it can handle the competition of Cineworld, despite fears the town does not need two cinemas.

During the planning appeal, which took place at Trowbridge Civic Centre earlier this month, Legal & General, developer of St Stephens Place, home to the seven-screen Odeon, made submissions to planning inspector David Nicholson to dismiss Prorsus’ plans to bring a new eight-screen Cineworld to the town.

It claimed the new cinema could have a detrimental effect on the Odeon, potentially forcing it to close. But the cinema operator says it does not anticipate this to be the case.

An Odeon spokesman said: “Across the country Odeon operates in a competitive environment so is used to a bit of friendly competition.

“Our Trowbridge team is focused on the success of the recently opened site and ensuring local film fans receive the ultimate cinema experience.

“We are confident that as long as we can keep delivering on that promise, Odeon Trowbridge will continue to attract a large amount of film fans from the local area.”

Wiltshire Council also argued against Prorsus’ scheme going ahead, citing similar reasons as Legal & General.

Prorsus has not claimed any of its costs for the appeal, but Wiltshire Council will still be left footing their legal fees for the hearing. A spokesman said: “We are disappointed and will consider the Inspector’s decision.”

Wiltshire and Trowbridge Town Councillor Jeff Osborn, meanwhile, has questioned whether there will be enough trade to support two muliplexes in the town. He said: “I don’t think the town can take another cinema but there’s nothing to stop them going ahead and seeing if it can.”