Swindon cinemas reopen next week

Silver screens across Swindon will come back to life next week following the long pandemic lay-off.

The Cineworld complexes at Regent Circus and Shaw Ridge will be back in business from Wednesday, 19 May, while Empire Cinemas at Greenbridge will reopen two days later.

The Greenbridge cinema complex is among 14 operated by Empire Cinemas, which is the UK's largest independently-owned cinema chain.

All will be reopened by the end of the month, with social distancing measures in accordance with the UK Cinema Association and UK government updated guidelines.

Swindon's Empire Cinemas branch will open along with branches in Ipswich, Sutton, Walthamstow and Great Park, while a further three will open on 26 May and the remainder on 28 May.

Justin Ribbons, CEO of Empire Cinemas said: We've all missed not being able to watch a film at the Cinema on a big screen and we can’t wait to welcome customers back."

Empire Cinemas has highlighted a range of different measures that have been put in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, including reduced seating capacities and limited film screening times to reduce any crowds. 

In addition, other measures include clear social distancing signage throughout the sites, plastic screens at till fronts, hand sanitizer stations and enhanced cleaning all over the cinema. 

As per Government guidelines, all cinemagoers are required to wear a face covering during their visit, unless they are eating and drinking or exempt. 

Empire continues to recommend pre booking online and using contactless payment methods in cinemas.