Cineworld Leicester Square

Background

Cineworld Leicester Square, formerly Empire, is a world-famous cinema in the heart of London’s leading entertainment district. It has hosted many major film premieres and has welcomed leading movie actors, directors, producers and others, including royals. In late 2017, Cineworld decided to refurbish the basement screen into a 4DX motion theatre, including wind, fog, bubbles, rain and scent, and the foyer and concession areas to the nine-screen venue, bringing the highest standards of finishes, including LED screen technologies, and providing VIP’s a fitting welcome when stepping off the red carpet.

Challenges

To carry out the complete refurbishment, the construction team had to overcome a number of challenges, including, trying to keep the cinema operational throughout the refurbishment, a notifiable asbestos removal and encapsulation to the high level flocked beams, and the general handling of materials and waste in the confines of Leicester Square.

Solutions

The decision was made early on in the project that we had to shut the cinema for a period of 4 weeks to give the construction team the time required to safely deal with the strip out and management of the asbestos removal, encapsulation and air clearance certification prior to allowing the public and staff back into the building. During this period, we also managed to carry out the new high-level structural works, and the floor preparation prior to the cinema reopening. The project management team dealt with material handling and waste by operating split shifts while the cinema was closed over night to ensure that all access and egress routes to the cinema were clear and safe for the public.

Results

Leicester Square is the home of entertainment in London and Cineworld is the jewel in its crown. Whether it’s a first date, a special occasion or just the thrill of seeing a big new movie on opening night, a visit to Cineworld Leicester Square always makes filmgoing that extra bit special. As you enter the cinema, an iconic all-digital staircase brings the film experience dazzlingly to life, and gives you exciting new ways to experience the biggest films and lose yourself in the action…

Whichever big movie you want to watch, Cineworld Leicester Square gives you extra. And remember it is the only location on the square where you can experience 4DX and IMAX with Laser. Cineworld Leicester Square offers different ways to enjoy the biggest films, always with the emphasis on intensifying an already awesome spectacle. It’s the perfect destination for your movie nights, whatever the occasion.