Huge upgrades underway at The Arc Cinema in Blackpool as company teases major announcement

“We’ve also got another exciting addition in the pipeline...”

Major upgrade works are now underway at The Arc Cinema Blackpool, marking a significant investment in the town centre venue formerly known as The Backlot, with the company also teasing upcoming major announcements.

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The site, which joined The Arc Cinema group last August as its 15th location with the existing team retained, will undergo a refurbishment involving the installation of more than 300 electric recliner seats across all nine auditoriums, replacing standard seating with a mix of luxury leather recliners and upgraded comfort options.

Two previously unfinished screens are also being completed, expanding the venue from seven to nine screens.

Ben Jones, Blackpool's Arc Cinema manager (left) with Councillor Mark Smith afer the official rebrand last yearplaceholder image
Ben Jones, Blackpool's Arc Cinema manager (left) with Councillor Mark Smith afer the official rebrand last year | Third party

The cinema will continue to house Lancashire’s only IMAX screen, with around two-thirds of seats in the large-format auditorium being upgraded as part of the works. Improvements are also planned for the foyer and lobby areas to enhance customer flow and create a more welcoming environment.

Ben Jones, General Manager of The Arc Cinema Blackpool, said: "This is a really exciting moment for us and for Blackpool cinema-goers. Since joining The Arc Cinema, we’ve focused on delivering fantastic value with tickets from just £5.95, free parking and the same brilliant local team customers already know and love.

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“Now we’re taking things to the next level with the addition of the famous luxury recliner seating and major improvements throughout the building. Whether you’re bringing the family for a fun day out or planning the perfect date night, new-look The Arc Cinema Blackpool is going to offer something truly special.

“We’ve also got another exciting addition in the pipeline which we’re keeping under wraps for now... so watch this space."

Major works underway at The Arc Cinema in Blackpoolplaceholder image
Major works underway at The Arc Cinema in Blackpool | Submitted

Despite the scale of the project, the cinema will remain open throughout, although some disruption is expected, including potential changes to screening times and film availability during certain phases.

The upgrade is due to be completed ahead of the summer holidays, in time for a slate of major releases including Toy Story 5, Supergirl, Minions 3, Moana and The Odyssey.

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