Local cinemas are excited to open up again on Monday – after months of closure due to Covid-19.
National lockdowns and tier restrictions have meant that some cinemas have been closed since November. They are now making preparations for visitors to ensure they are COVID safe.
Paul Scotton, general manager of Savoy Cinemas in Nottingham, said they were “very eager to get back again”.
“It’s funny how much you miss that routine once you’ve been out of it for so long,” said Mr Scotton.
Mr Scotton added that the Nottingham venue has been closed for the longest period since opening in 1935.
“It survived World War Two, but not the coronavirus!” said Mr Scotton.
To ensure safety for film goers, cinemas have had to make adjustments to comply with social distancing and COVID rules.
“We’ll have allocated seating to ensure social distancing, which will be two seats between every customer. There will be floor markers and customers will have a choice as to whether they can book their seat online or in the box office,” said Mr Scotton.
Mr Scotton added they will only be bringing back six staff members to the venue.
“Our staff have been on furlough, but a lot of them are currently busy anyway as some either have exams or are at university,” said Mr Scotton.
Abigail Teague, assistant manager at Savoy Cinemas in Boston, said they “can’t wait to get back”.
Mrs Teague added that a “50% capacity limit” will be in place.
“Our smaller screen normally holds 60 people, so only 30 will be allowed in there. Whereas our largest screen holds 170 people, so 85 will be the limit,” said Mrs Teague.
“We will also have a one-way system so people don’t cross paths as well as either-way booking so customers can either book seats online or at the box office,” said Mrs Teague.
The seats at both venues are also being thoroughly cleaned down as well as re-stocking of food and drinks.
The viewings being showcased include Peter Rabbit 2, Godzilla vs Kong and Tom & Jerry. The larger blockbusters such as Fast and Furious 9 the new James Bond film, ‘No Time To Die’ have been delayed until later this year.
“We’re trying to follow Government guidelines, so hopefully we can get back to full capacity when the big blockbusters are released,” said Mrs Teague.
The full Government guidance for indoor entertainment venues can be found here.
