Cinema giant Omniplex is set to open a state–of–the–art cinema at the Oaks Centre in Dungannon.
The firm, which is the largest multiplex chain on the island of Ireland, will move into premises that were vacated by Global Cinemas in November 2014. Omniplex is committed to making an investment of around £2.5M to £3M to refurbish the premises and the venture is expected to create up to 30 full and part–time jobs.
The new cinema is excepted to open at the end of February after Global Cinemas went into administration over 12 months ago.
Omniplex operations director, Paul John Anderson, said the current site will undergo a “substantial redevelopment” and filmgoers can expect a “top class” experience.
“This isn’t just a standard facelift”, Mr Anderson told the Courier. “There will be a complete overhaul of the premises, with new seats, state–of–the–art screens and projectors.
“It’s still early but we expect the investment to be worth in the region of £2.5M to £3M. At the moment there are six screens but if there is room for development we will look to include another screen or two”.
Mr Anderson said he is optimistic the new cinema will flourish in a “prime location”. “The industry is holding up well”, Mr Anderson said.
“There are challenges of course, with digital downloads and piracy, and that has affected DVD sales and rentals. Cinemas offer a different experience – a social experience that is still appealing for a lot of people. We are committed to offering a high standard venue and it’s a prime location. The Oaks Centre looks superb at the moment – there are good parking facilities and we have been aware of the venue for a while now. It’s a very good opportunity”.
The move will cement Omniplex’s position as the dominant cinema chain in the area, with cinemas already open in Armagh and Craigavon, while plans are in place to open another in Omagh.
Former Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP, Michelle Gildernew, who was involved in discussions to bring the Omniplex brand to the town, said she is “delighted” with the news.
“The closure of the cinema last year was an awful disappointment for the town – it’s fantastic that Omniplex is coming here. It represents a considerable investment. I know there were investors interested and I wanted them to come to Dungannon. There is no entertainment venue of its kind in the town, particularly for the 13–18 year old age group. It’s great news for them.
“People will no longer have to travel to Armagh or Cookstown for their nearest cinema and it will provide a massive boost for the economy, not just for the Oaks Centre, but right across the Dungannon and South Tyrone area”.
Omniplex currently operate 11 cinemas in Northern Ireland, in Kennedy Centre and Dundonald Belfast, Antrim, Armagh, Lisburn, Newry, Carrickfergus, Craigavon, Larne, Bangor and Derry in addition to the one planned for Omagh. The firm also operates a further 11 cinemas in the Republic of Ireland.
Omniplex have restaurants at some of their outlets but they haven’t confirmed if similar plans are in place for their Dungannon venture. A Chinese restaurant was open for a time alongside Global Cinemas.
Source: Tyrone Courier
