Rhyl’s last cinema has closed, leaving locals heartbroken over the loss of a cherished community spot and a long-standing tradition of movie-going.
The council, which owns the building, said they were sad about the closure. They mentioned that trading conditions were tough, and many moviegoers reported half-empty theaters.
Regulars are feeling pretty devastated. One local shared online how much they loved going there, especially for family movie nights. It’s tough to see such a beloved spot go.
Vue Rhyl was known for its affordable tickets, but parking was a hassle. Sadly, this closure is just one more blow for Rhyl, which is already losing other attractions. Locals are calling it a “ghost town” on social media.
Gareth Davies, a local MS, expressed his sadness in a video, saying it’s a tough day for Rhyl. He reflected on how much the town has changed over the years.
Rhyl’s cinema history goes way back to 1906. The first one opened in Market Street, and it was quite the place to be. Over the years, it had many names, but Cheetham’s was the most famous.
Arthur Cheetham, the original owner, made around 50 films in Rhyl. His work captured everyday life back in the day. The Odeon cinema was also a favorite for many, but now it’s just a bingo hall.
While there are still some local film events, mainstream cinema is gone. The nearest options are in Prestatyn and Tywyn, which isn’t ideal for Rhyl’s residents.
One visitor mentioned how much she’ll miss the cinema during her holidays. She’s been coming to Rhyl for 60 years, and it used to be a magical place for kids.
Another local called the closure “criminal,” saying it was the best value for money. A grandmother echoed this, worried about what kids will do now that there’s less for them to enjoy.
The rise of streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ is partly to blame for this loss. Denbighshire Council expressed their disappointment, saying they tried to support Vue Cinema but ultimately had no control over the decision.
They’re now looking for a new operator for the site, but it’s still early days. It’s a tough time for Rhyl, and many are hoping for a brighter future for the town.
