Plans for a major new £65m cinema and restaurant complex in the heart of Aldershot, Hampshire, have been approved in principle by Rushmoor Borough Council (RBC).

The council's development control committee unanimously backed the WestGate project, which will include a seven-screen Cineworld multiplex, a number of restaurants and a 91-bedroom hotel. A Morrisons' supermarket and a car park are also among the plans put forward by RBC's development partner, London-based property group Citygrove.

The scheme will now go before communities secretary Eric Pickles, who will have 21 days to determine whether the council is allowed to award full planning permission. Final approval will be subject to the signing of a legal agreement between Hampshire County Council and WestGate Aldershot Ltd, although it is hoped work can start on site in October.

The complex is scheduled for completion in early 2012.