Controversial Cinemaworld Project Is Dead In Salem

SALEM, MA -- Salem officials confirmed Monday that a controversial proposal to build an entertainment complex at 355-373 Highland Avenue in Salem has been withdrawn. Ward 3 City Councilor Lisa Peterson made the announcement on her Facebook page Monday night and said the city was in the early stages of reviewing a new proposal for the property, which was listed for sale last February.

"I can confirm that THE CINEMAWORLD PROPOSAL IS OFFICIALLY NO MORE!" Peterson wrote. "I know this brings relief to many throughout Ward 3 and along the Highland Ave corridor, and I am so happy to be able to deliver that message to you."

Florida-based CW Theaters wanted to build a 10-screen movie theater, restaurant, arcade and other entertainment businesses. The original proposal, which was submitted more than fouryears ago, drew strong opposition from area residents who say the Ward 3 neighborhood is already congested with regularly occurring traffic backups.

Last December the company began asbestos cleanup on the site and in February listed the property for sale. Yet it still maintained it was moving forward with its proposal and would submit a revised plan to the city.

Peterson said there was a new proposal for the site before the city but it was in the early stages. "The new proposal includes residential rental units and a restaurant. Details beyond that are still being developed, and our input is very valuable at this stage to help shape the proposal," she said.

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Photo by Realtor.com.

Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).