The Curzon cinema in Ripon is to close on July 1.
The company said the Ripon venue faced “specific challenges” and the site “is not suited to the long-term direction we have taken”.
The venue’s nine staff were informed of the decision yesterday.
Curzon confirmed the news to the Stray Ferret this afternoon after a source informed us of the closure.
“Unfortunately, your information is correct, the cinema is due to close on July 1.
“The cinema has specific challenges that have meant it has not recovered as we hoped after the pandemic.
“In recent years, with several new purpose-built cinemas opening in the area, the local audience has been spread too thinly for Ripon to thrive.”
Mr Garriock added:
“The site is not suited to the long-term direction we have taken post-pandemic, driven by increased customer focus on hospitality, for example, the rooftop and pizza kitchen offering at Curzon Kingston.
“I am aware the news is a disappointment to both the staff and the local community, who share a love for the cinema.”
The Curzon is on North Street in Ripon
Curzon, which has 17 cinemas, was founded in 1934 and is known for showing art house films. It runs membership schemes that encourage people to watch films throughout the year.
The source that contacted the Stray Ferret urged people in Ripon that any queries resulting from the closure must be dealt with online and that nothing could be sorted in the cinema on North Street.
They appealed to people not to abuse staff.
Mr Garriock said “there will be no issue with customers requesting refunds for memberships they might have taken out” and urged people to call the customer helpline on 01233 555644.
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