Discussions between the council and the company have continued for some months.

It was initially thought the company would buy land at Inveresk by early this year.

It has been previously reported that the $10 million project was expected to employ 30 part-time and casual staff when open and 60 people during construction.

Council general manager Robert Dobrzynski said yesterday that negotiations were nearing an end.

``Negotiations over the land sale are continuing in a positive manner and are close to being formalised,'' he said.

``The subdivision process is currently sitting with the Land Titles Office, but we understand this will soon be finalised.''

Metro Cinemas executive officer John O'Neill did not wish to comment, other than to say he hoped to be able to make an announcement by the end of this month.

The company previously tried to open a second cinema in 2002 but was knocked back.