Some screens at a Swindon cinema have closed while improvement work is underway.

When the major refurbishment of the Greenbridge Vue is completed - the first revamp since it took over from Empire in July 2023 - the cinema will be the chain’s first in the UK to have several fancy features.

Half of the multiplex’s screening rooms are currently shut while the old seats are being swapped out with new luxury recliners.

The rest of the cinema remains open as normal, with films like Wicked, Gladiator 2, Paddington in Peru, and Red One entertaining audiences.

The first phase of the upgrade work is expected to be completed before Christmas, so film fans will be able to watch festive releases like Moana 2, Mufasa: The Lion King, and Sonic the Hedgehog 3 while relaxing in the more comfortable seats.

Along with the Lux seats, there will be an extra level of luxury with Ultra Luxes available to book which were teased by Vue to be its biggest, most comfortable recliner seating yet.

(Image: Vue Cinemas) The full refurbishment will be completed in early 2025 and will include a self-serve retail area in the foyer that will also be the first of its kind in the UK.

From a wall of drinks and snacks, customers will be able to find some of the most popular food and drink options, including sections for popcorn, hot dogs and nachos.

Jon Ditty is the area manager of Vue for the southwest and South Wales.

He said: “Since opening our venue in Swindon last year, we have had big plans to ensure that the big screen experience is truly unforgettable.

“Customers in Swindon will be among the first to try out the Ultra Lux seat and experience our new pilot retail design which has been created to make the journey from our entrance to the screen as seamless as possible.

“Local film fans can also expect the best screen and sound experience that Vue is renowned for with high-definition laser projection screens, including an IMAX screen, and Dolby surround sound.

“We are excited to embark on this journey to bring our plans to life and look forward to giving our customers the first taste of this transformation with the opening of the first new and improved screens next month.”

The first screens featuring the Lux and Ultra Lux seats will open in December, with tickets priced from £7.99 online – an increase from the current online prices of £4.99.

Help support trusted local news

Sign up for a digital subscription now: https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/subscribe/

As a digital subscriber, you will get:            

  • Unlimited access to the Swindon Advertiser website        
  • Advert-light access             
  • Reader rewards             
  • Full access to our app