Fears over the potential closure of Aberdeen Cineworld sites have been eased.
The cinema chain has announced six UK sites it plans on closing – but the Union Square and Beach Boulevard locations are not included.
It was reported previously that up to 25 locations could be axed, leading to fears the Aberdeen branches may be among them.
However, Cineworld has now confirmed only six sites will shut, one which is in Scotland – at Parkhead in Glasgow.
The other five are in England.
We reported on Thursday that staff at the Granite City’s Queen’s Link cinema had been left in the dark over the potential closures.
Management at the beachfront cinema confirmed to the Press and Journal that “they hadn’t been told anything” by Cineworld regarding any closure.
Customers at the Queen’s Link picture house also told us on Thursday of their fears for the cinema.
One told us it would be “a blow to Aberdeen’s beach” with others labelling the potential move “a massive shame”.
But Aberdeen’s two locations will remain open for the time being.
Cineworld announces restructuring plan
The company has announced its “restructuring plan” in a bid to secure the long-term future of its UK business.
The plan involves closing “commercially unviable” locations in the background of “increasingly high and unsustainable operating costs”.
The company also plans to negotiate with landlords to reduce rent across the board to market level in the hope of returning to profitability.
A Cineworld spokesperson said: “We are implementing a restructuring plan that will provide our company with a strong platform to return our business to profitability, attract further investment from the group, and ensure a sustainable long-term future for Cineworld in the UK.”
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