Premiere Cinemas Romford, a longstanding fixture in the Mercury Shopping Centre, has sadly closed its doors for the last time after 12 years of operation. The closure comes as a result of the cinema being repossessed by its landlord, Rank Group Gaming Division, sparking a mix of emotions within the Romford community.
Grateful for the support it has received over the years, Premiere Cinemas took to social media to express its appreciation to the residents of Romford. In a statement released on August 20, the cinema announced, “We are sorry to announce that Premiere Cinemas has closed. Thank you Romford for all of your support over the last 12 years.” It is evident that the cinema held a special place in the hearts of many locals, who are now left to reminisce about the memories made within its walls.
The closure was confirmed by a spokesperson for Rank Group Gaming Division, who stated that the premises had been repossessed for commercial reasons. The spokesperson revealed, “On Friday 16th August, Rank Group Gaming Division took possession of this premises from the sub-tenant for commercial reasons.” This move marked the end of an era for Premiere Cinemas, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by the community.
Premiere Cinemas had previously raised concerns about a “long running dispute” with its landlord, as well as citing “serious structural defects” within the cinema. The now-deleted statement on the cinema’s website alleged that these issues were known to the landlord prior to the lease agreement. However, Rank Group Gaming Division clarified that it is not the superior landlord of the property and has no control over the overall structure of the shopping centre.
Spencer Hawken, the shopping centre’s manager representing the superior landlord, refuted the claims of structural defects within the cinema. He stated, “There is categorically nothing wrong with the structure of the cinema or the building.” Despite the closure of Premiere Cinemas, Hawken remains optimistic about the future of the property, suggesting that it will likely be acquired by another cinema chain due to its operational status.
The closure of Premiere Cinemas has left a void in the Romford community, particularly for cinephiles who frequented the cinema for its diverse range of films. The cinema had also played a significant role in hosting events such as the Romford Film Festival, co-founded by Spencer Hawken in 2017. The festival, which took place annually, showcased a variety of films and honored talents within the industry.
As the news of Premiere Cinemas’ closure spreads throughout Romford, residents are left to reflect on the impact the cinema had on their lives. From date nights to family outings, the cinema was a hub of entertainment and culture for many in the area. Moving forward, the community will undoubtedly miss the presence of Premiere Cinemas and the memories created within its walls.
Impact on the Community
The closure of Premiere Cinemas has had a profound impact on the Romford community, with many expressing their sadness over the loss of the beloved cinema. For years, the cinema served as a gathering place for friends and families to enjoy the latest films and create lasting memories. The news of its closure has left many feeling nostalgic for the good times spent at Premiere Cinemas.
Local residents have taken to social media to share their thoughts and memories of the cinema, with many expressing gratitude for the entertainment it provided over the years. One resident, Sarah Thompson, commented, “I will miss Premiere Cinemas dearly. It was a place where I could escape reality for a few hours and immerse myself in the magic of cinema. The closure is truly a loss for our community.”
The impact of Premiere Cinemas’ closure extends beyond just the loss of a physical space for film screenings. The cinema played a vital role in supporting local talent through events like the Romford Film Festival, which provided a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work. With its closure, aspiring filmmakers in the area may now find it challenging to access similar opportunities for exposure and recognition.
Future of Cinema in Romford
Despite the closure of Premiere Cinemas, there remains hope for the future of cinema in Romford. The vibrant community has shown a strong appreciation for film and entertainment, indicating a demand for a new cinema to fill the void left by Premiere Cinemas. With its central location and dedicated audience, Romford presents an attractive opportunity for cinema chains looking to establish a presence in the area.
Local authorities and business owners are optimistic about the prospect of a new cinema opening in Romford, citing the potential for economic growth and cultural enrichment. The closure of Premiere Cinemas has sparked conversations about the importance of preserving access to film and entertainment within the community. As plans for redevelopment and revitalization take shape, there is a sense of excitement about the possibilities that lie ahead for cinema in Romford.
In conclusion, the closure of Premiere Cinemas in Romford marks the end of an era for the beloved cinema. The impact of its closure on the community is evident, with residents expressing their gratitude for the memories and experiences shared within its walls. As Romford looks towards the future, there is hope for a new chapter in the city’s cinematic landscape, one that will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.
