Huge abandoned multiplex cinema set to reopen in £3.5 million makeover

A huge multiplex cinema is set to reopen at Robin Park in Wigan following a £3.5 million makeover of the town’s only cinema.

Film lovers were left having to travel further afield when Empire announced its closure at Robin Park last July after the chain ran into some financial difficulties.

But avid movie fans can get back to their favourite pastime again as Omniplex Cinema Group, one of the UK and Ireland’s largest silver screen chains, has announced it will reopen the site.

The company revealed ambitious plans to rebrand the 11-screen leisure facility after acquiring the space.

With upcoming blockbusters worthy of seeing on the big screen, including Dune 2, The Joker: Folie à Deux and Deadpool 3, the news will no doubt come as music to the ears of fans.

Not only will film fans be able to enjoy going to see the latest releases again, they will be able to experience watching cinematic adventures in ultimate comfort as Omniplex is set to install fully electric recline seating throughout as well as luxurious sofa beds in select screens.

The new look cinema will undergo a £3.5 million transformation which will upgrade the venue with a promise to customers that they will step into a space which ‘evokes a boutique festival style and experience’.

On entering the newly refurbished venue, cinemagoers will stumble upon food and drinks vendors serving everything from hot pizza slices, to grilled sandwiches, soft drinks, beers and cocktails.

Omniplex has also announced the cinema will feature a new OmniplexMAXX screen, which screens films in the chain’s premium large format, immersing the viewer in an exhilarating experience of sight, sound and feel.

Each OmniplexMAXX screen incorporates luxury Recline seating, an extra-large screen for the ultimate viewing experience and a Dolby Atmos 3D sound system.

Speaking about the new cinema soon to be opening in Wigan, Paul John Anderson, Director of the Omniplex Cinema Group, said: “We are delighted to announce that we will be opening an Omniplex cinema in Wigan and can kick off our ambitious renovation plans, plans which we know will deliver a truly premium experience for our customers and allow them to watch films in the ultimate comfort.

“We know cinemas are an important pillar of the community in Wigan, and with our significant investment set to deliver new luxury seating, a premium large format screen and extensive food and beverage options, we know our brand of cinematic experience will be a sure-fire hit with film fans in the area.”

The acquisition of the former Empire Cinema was advised upon by commercial agents Avison Young and comes after Omniplex Cinema Group’s expansion last year.

The company made an investment of £22.5 million over the course of 18 months to acquire and refurbish existing Empire Cinema locations nationwide.

Since it first opened its doors to customers in Ireland in 1991, it has become renowned for its state-of-the-art projection and digital sound facilities, as well as diverse programming, which includes sporting events, musicals, concerts, and ballet in addition to the latest cinema releases.

Omniplex now has 353 screens across 43 cinema locations across the UK and Ireland. Wigan film fanatics will soon be able to choose between two cinemas, including the complex at Galleries25 in the town centre, once that has been completed in a couple of years’ time.