The latest update on our re-opening plans

We wanted to touch base and let you all know that we are aware of the recent change to Government guidelines regarding the re-opening of cinemas across the UK. Unfortunately we are somewhat limited by the size of our original building and auditorium – whereas a large multiplex cinema chain can take steps to cut the number of seats to provide adequate social distancing. In a 30-seater cinema such as ours, it’s far more of a challenge; our break-even margins are so small and our ongoing viability becomes questionable.

Also, the physical constraints of our beautiful old building mean that it might be a challenge to operate some of our services (like the bar) in the same way going forward. For example, access to the toilets in our cinema building is via a very narrow corridor – passing right by the bar!

On June 25th, the Government released a 29-page document called “Cinemas – keeping workers and customers safe during Covid-19”. At the moment a small team of Regal Volunteers and The Regal’s management team are reviewing these guidelines, considering the Regal building’s inherent constraints, carrying out a risk assessment and formulating a strategy to reopen as soon as we practically can.

It is likely to be a gentle and phased re-opening, and we will assess as we go before stepping up screenings, only relaxing any controls when the Covid-19 environment improves and the risk is minimised.

To manage everyone’s expectations, we are not expecting to open in July. We’re sorry that we do not have an opening date to announce just yet, but please do rest assured that we are working hard behind the scenes to put together a safe and viable action plan.

We will update everybody as soon as we have more information. Thank you for your patience and support – we can’t wait until we’re able to welcome you all back to The Regal Cinema.

Best wishes,
Barry, Bridget and Sue
The Regal Cinema Team