Liquidators have been brought in to wind up Empire Cinemas in High Wycombe after the chain collapsed into administration.

Liquidators were appointed on December 21, 2023, according to a new public insolvency notice in The Gazette.

The Covid-19 pandemic and competition from streaming services were blamed for a downturn in Empire’s business.

The chain’s High Wycombe cinema was one of five which closed, alongside Birmingham, Clydebank, High, Ipswich and London.

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However, the cinemas all reopened last month after being taken over by the Omniplex Cinema Group.

The Irish company is reported to have spent £22.5million buying and refurbishing the sites as it expands into the UK.

Omniplex director Paul John Anderson said: “Our disciplined approach to investing in our businesses and unwavering drive to operate high-quality cinema locations have proved successful over the years on the island of Ireland.”

The newly opened High Wycombe Omniplex is located on Crest Road just off handy Cross Roundabout.

New photos of the venue show a freshly renovated foyer area, ticket machines and a food and drinks counter.

The cinema is currently showing Wonka starring Timothée Chalamet, the latest Hunger Games film and other huge movies.