Proposed Lewisham cinema operator collapses into administration

The proposed operator of a cinema in Lewisham being built as part of a major town centre project has collapsed.

Empire cinemas was formed in 2005 and due to operate at Lewisham Gateway.

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The latest and final phase is currently under construction and due for residents to move in before the year is out.

Of 14 cinemas across the country six closed with immediate effect. At attempt to find operators for a further eight are ongoing.

It’s a major blow to Lewisham which would have seen its first multiplex for many years.

The development is also set to bring a Sainsbury’s, a gym, bakery alongside a coffee shop and other outlets.

But all those were ten a penny really. The cinema was what would offer something the town has lacked for many years.

Will another operator take it on? Cineworld recently entered administration and have substantial debts. Their premium brand Picturehouse is supposed to be a part of a major Woolwich development.

That was announced way back in 2019 – and no work has yet begun across the Woolwich site.

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Tom Leader

09/07/2023 at 17:59

The day may come when developers and councils realise that large shopping developments leased to major retailers while convenient for them are much more susceptible to long term vacancy than individual smaller shop units that can also help local people start their own business.
Also you mention the ten-a-penny bakers. Where do I find all these bakers?
Levi

09/07/2023 at 20:23

I hope the cinema doesn’t lie dormant for years ☹️
Iain

10/07/2023 at 06:42

Type Greggs into Google maps
Jo

10/07/2023 at 14:06

There’s high street bakery chains everywhere. And the specific one coming to this development (Gail’s) can also be seen a mile away or two mins on a train at Blackheath, or a mile away and two mins on a DLR at Greenwich.
Tom

11/07/2023 at 00:36

Ah, it must just be Plumstead and Woolwich that have no bakers then. Greggs doesn’t count as a baker because they don’t seem to sell bread anymore.
Daniel Azzopardi

11/07/2023 at 01:09

Boulangerie Jade is in Woolwich, not 40 paces from exit of Elizabeth line
jake

11/07/2023 at 10:49

I think the bowling alley would be a good fit for this area and move it from the current location
Jane

11/07/2023 at 21:32

Gregg’s is more like a fast food takeaway shop these days.