Andrew Mitchell MP has contacted Chief Executive of Empire Cinemas, Justin Ribbons to ask for an update on plans to open the Empire in the Royal Town.

Earlier in the year Andrew backed Empire’s bid for funds from the Culture Recovery Fund for Independent Cinemas in England, which was administered by the British Film Institute. Unfortunately, the company did not secure funds from the scheme.

Following some uncertainty about the Royal Town’s Empire which has remained shut while other Empire cinemas have re-opened around the country, Andrew contacted the CEO to ask for an update.

Andrew Mitchell MP said:

“I contacted the Chief Executive of Empire Cinemas, Justin Ribbons, to ask for an update on the future of our local Empire. I know that the cinema is much loved by many locally, it is an important source of employment, as well as providing support to the local economy in terms of improving footfall and increasing customers for local shops and restaurants.

“I have received reassurances that the company does intend in the medium term to reopen the cinema. However, as the cinema is in an older building with some older technical equipment, the company is unable to reopen the cinema in its current condition. Empire hopes to bring forward plans which should enable the necessary works and allow the building to reopen again.

“I will be following this closely over the coming months and I have offered my support and assistance to ensure that the cinema can re-open again once the necessary works have been completed.”