Cinema future is saved in takeover

Kidderminster's Warehouse Cinema has been taken over by Reel Cinemas in a move that is expected to secure its future, it was announced today.

Reel currently operates many sites, including the Majestic Cinema in Bridgnorth. The Warehouse Cinema in Green Street, Kidderminster, closed unexpectedly several days ago.

Today's announcement outlining the takeover was made by owner and solicitor Simon Swaffield.

He said the directors and staff of the Kidderminster Cinema Company were "delighted" to announce that the Warehouse Cinema had been acquired by Reel Cinemas. "The site will open open on either January 9 or January 16, depending on operational arrangements."

Mr Swaffield opened the Warehouse Cinema in Green Street about four years ago and although he said closure was "not on the cards" he was concerned about increases in rent at the beginning of the year.

In a bid to secure its future he asked Wyre Forest District Council to step in and enter into a joint venture, but the authority refused.