New operator announced ahead of Cineworld closure

A new operator has been found to manage a West Yorkshire cinema earmarked for closure in the new year.

Vue will take over the 14-screen Cineworld venue at Castleford's Xscape Yorkshire leisure complex after it closes on 19 January.

The Cineworld branch, which has been operating for over 20 years, is one of six across the UK which are closing as part of company cost-savings.

Though no reopening date has been announced, Xscape Yorkshire's centre director Jason Warren said they wanted to ensure visitors could "continue to enjoy the latest blockbusters and the best of British films".

"We can't wait to announce the opening date and invite everyone to step inside and experience this new cinema venue," he added.

Vue, which has 92 cinemas with over 290 screens across the UK and Ireland, will move into the first floor of the leisure complex, which is currently occupied by Cineworld.

The announcement comes after Xscape Yorkshire said earlier this month it was working with Cineworld "to try and find a solution which works for all those involved".

Cineworld entered administration in 2023 after suffering financial difficulties, though its screens across the country stayed open.

Cineworld said the closure of its Castleford venue was part of its plans to ensure the "long-term future and profitability" of the company.

The other impacted branches are Leigh, Middlesbrough, Northampton, Poole and Weymouth.

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