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A general view across the Market Square with the ne complex in the centre of the photograph. The Star Group of cinemas – the Leeds based firm which operates an expensive chain of cinemas and bingo halls throughout the country, including the Palace and Empire here in Burnley – has taken over the management of the ultra-modern twin cinema unit now being developed in Burnley’s town centre.
A big question mark hovers over the Palace and the Empire, a question mark that even the Star group spokesman cannot answer at this stage. There is a strong rumour however, that the Palace (already doomed for demolition in Burnley’s central area redevelopment plan) will close and that the Empire may take over the role as a bingo hall.
The twin cinema unit was taken over by Classic Cinemas, a Londom-based group, when it became available, but recent negotiations have resulted in the Star group taking over as agents. It is hoped that the cinemas will be open to the public in two or three weeks’ time. Mr Robert Bush, manager of the Empire for the past two years, has taken over the management of the two units, known as Studio One and Studio Two. Mr Prendergast becomes manager of the Empire. The new cinemas will be housed in a self-contained complex at first floor level, overlooking the market square. Studio One will seat 444 people and the smaller auditorium, Studio Two, will accommodate 224. Air conditioning and heating systems will be of the most advanced type. The “boiler” room will be in the “attic” above the cinemas.
A spokesman for the Star group told our reporter that it was their intention to bring the finest range of films to Burnley that were available from the studios of the world. The group have applied for a special licence to allow late-night screening between 11pm and 2am.