Cineworld and Odeon planning to reopen cinemas from July

CINEWORLD and Odeon are preparing to reopen UK cinema branches in July.

Cineworld said today all of its 128 UK cinemas, including those in the Picturehouse chain, will open if government lockdown restrictions have been lifted.

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While Odeon, which has 120 UK cinemas, said in a statement it will be "ready to welcome guests back from early July" but this will be dependent on having a strong film line up and government guidance.

Both cinema chains closed their doors on March 17, just ahead of Boris Johnson's coronavirus lockdown announcement on March 23.

Vue closed on the same day, after the Prime Minister said people should avoid socialising, including going to the cinema and the pub.

Cineworld said today: "Cineworld currently anticipates that government restrictions related to cinemas will be lifted in each of its territories by July. 

"Subject to this and confirmation of the schedule for film releases, Cineworld anticipates the reopening of all of its cinemas in July."

Odeon said it is introducing additional health and safety measures at its cinemas so those visiting can enjoy the experience in a safe and controlled way.

The news follows an announcement by Vue at the start of the month which said it was planning on opening cinemas again from July 4. It said tickets must be brought online and screenings will be staggered.

It's expected that cinemas, along with pubs and hairdressers, will be allowed to open if the UK passes five tests.

These include the rate of infection dropping to manageable levels, a sustained and constant fall in the death rate, and there being enough testing and PPE.

Cineworld, which has 787 cinemas around the world and 128 in the UK, also said it has put in place procedures to ensure a safe and enjoyable cinema experience for its employees and customers.

It comes after Mr Johnson confirmed that non-essential shops will reopen on June 15. Cinemas, along with hairdressers and pubs are expected to open from July, according to the government's three-stage roadmap plan.

A number of businesses have begun to open their doors again, including restaurant chains and garden centres.

While some high-street shops, including John Lewis, are also planning on reopening next month.

Many homeware shops, including Halfords, that temporarily closed have also began to open their doors again.