Sutton Coldfield's Empire Cinema prepares for its reopening

The venue, located in Birmingham Road, will open to cinema-goers from Friday, May 28 ahead of the bank holiday weekend.

Empire, who currently operate in 14 cinemas across the country, have outlined a staggered reopening starting with Ipswich, Swindon, Walthamstow and Great Park this Friday.

When Empire Sutton Coldfield opens, it will be with reduced seating capacity, while there will also be limited film screening times to reduce crowds.

Other measures include social distancing signs throughout the sites, plastic screens at till fronts, hand sanitiser stations and enhanced cleaning across the cinema.

All cinema-goers will be required to wear a face covering during their visit, unless they are eating and drinking or are exempt. Empire is recommending pre-booking online and using contactless payment methods.

Justin Ribbons, CEO of Empire Cinemas, said: “We've all missed not being able to watch a film at the cinema on a big screen and we can’t wait to welcome customers back.

"We have a great line-up of films, there really is something for everyone.

“The safety and wellbeing of our customers and staff is still our top priority and safety/social distancing measures remain in place.”

Movies set to hit the big screen include Disney's live action film Cruella; family favourite Tom and Jerry the Movie; horror The Conjuring 3, and Spiral, starring Chris Rock and Samuel L. Jackson.