As lockdown restrictions start lifting, we are asking you to complete our short survey that will help support our thoughts about how and when to reopen our cinema. Your comments will help us understand your feelings about returning to us, and what we need to do to make your visit as safe and comfortable.
The Welsh Government announced that cinemas could begin reopening from 27th July if they comply with guidelines and social distancing.
Like many Welsh independent cinemas, we felt this date was too early. We take our responsibility for the health and safety of our staff and community very seriously, so have chosen to hold off until it’s the right time for people to return to the Memo. We are working towards making you feel welcomed and safe and want you all to fully enjoy your visiting experience.
We will let you know the specific cinema reopening date closer to the time and, if necessary, will revise our plans in light of changing circumstances.
In the meantime, we are hard at work behind the scenes putting in place refurbishments and making preparations required to be able to welcome you back.
Guided by the Welsh Government and UK Cinema Association’s guidelines, alongside our own detailed risk assessment, here are some of the things you can expect when we reopen:
Social distancing – we will be carefully managing the movement of audiences through the building, putting in place distance markers, signposting and barrier screens at key points.
Cinema seating – generous spacing will be introduced between seats to ensure every individual or family group is correctly socially distanced from any other person. The capacity will be reduced to support this.
Film scheduling – we will build in more time between screenings to allow audiences to enter and exit safely and provide time for thorough cleaning between screenings.
Tickets & payments – everyone will need to book tickets online in advance and admission will be conducted in the building without the need to handle physical items such as tickets, cards or cash.
Food & drink –our Café Bar will reopen with a reduced menu and options to pre-order for collection on arrival. We are looking at how we may use smartphone technology to display our menu, take orders and minimise unnecessary contact.
Washrooms – special consideration will be given to how we support social distancing in our toilets and washrooms.
Cleaning & hygiene – we will have an enhanced cleaning programme in place, with hand sanitiser available throughout the building. Our staff have been provided with personal protective equipment, and barrier screens will be in place to shield staff and customers.
Training – our staff will be thoroughly trained about Covid-19 symptoms and routes to infection, and how to implement the measures we are introducing to safeguard guests and staff.
Test & Trace – all our customers will need to book tickets in advance, registering their full contact details as required by government guidelines.
Please complete our short survey to help us understand how you feel about returning and the measures we are putting in place.
Thank you.
