Odeon has announced that it will be closing its Covent Garden cinema this weekend and its Surrey Quays branch the following weekend, much to the disappointment of film enthusiasts. The Covent Garden location will be shutting down on Sunday, August 11, while the Surrey Quays cinema will have its final day of operation on August 18.
According to a statement from Odeon, the closures are due to redevelopment plans by the landlords of both sites. The Covent Garden branch, situated on Shaftesbury Avenue at the former Saville Theatre site, is set to be transformed into a live performance venue with dining and accommodation facilities. This Grade II listed building covers an area of 110,000 sq ft.
Fans of these cinemas have taken to social media to express their sadness over the news. Jon Bridges lamented the closure of the Covent Garden cinema, emphasizing its unique charm and cultural significance within central London. Mark Pearcey also shared his disappointment, echoing the sentiments of many others who frequented these venues.
Some moviegoers are even contemplating canceling their Odeon memberships in light of the closures. Lucy Ingham, for example, expressed her attachment to the Surrey Quays cinema, where she regularly used her Limitless card. She pondered the possibility of establishing a community cinema in the area as an alternative.
While the closures of these beloved cinemas are undeniably disheartening, it is worth noting the potential for new and exciting developments to take place in these locations. As London continues to evolve and grow, there may be opportunities for other innovative entertainment spaces to emerge, catering to the diverse tastes of movie buffs and theater enthusiasts alike.
In the meantime, fans of Odeon cinemas can look forward to visiting other locations across the city and experiencing the latest blockbuster films in different settings. Whether it’s catching a movie in a bustling city center or a more suburban neighborhood, the magic of cinema remains a constant source of joy and entertainment for audiences of all ages. Let’s cherish the memories of Odeon Covent Garden and Surrey Quays, while remaining hopeful for the future of film-going in London.