Repairs continue at Cineplex

National movie chain plans big reopening in Charlottetown in spring

Cineplex Cinemas Charlottetown is targeting a reopening in the spring.

Judy Lung, director of communications for the national chain, told SaltWire Network on Jan. 26 that the company’s initial goal of getting back to business in February has been pushed back.

“I can tell you that work is underway at the moment,’’ Lung said in a telephone interview from corporate head office in Toronto. “I don’t have any specific dates.’’

Cineplex closed its eighttheatre complex at Royalty Crossing after post-tropical storm Fiona roared through the province on Sept. 23-24, 2022.

The Charlottetown Fire Department responded to an alarm at Cineplex on Sept. 27 and found the lobby and some of the theatres were flooding from a heavy downpour that had occurred in the afternoon.

At the time, Tim Mayme, the city’s fire chief, said Fiona caused significant damage to the structure’s roof.

The cinemas have been closed ever since.

Lung said the damage was extensive, requiring almost a complete rebuild.

“It’s not a demolish-andrebuild but certainly we’re making sure the building is in top shape in terms of safety and all that. I would say (we’re undertaking) significant renovations.’’

SaltWire Network hasn’t been allowed inside to tour the facility and view the damage but on a visit to the location on Jan. 27 was able to see the lobby through an open door as workers walked in and out.

It appeared that all of the walls and the concession stand in the lobby have been taken down.

SaltWire Network did speak to workers at the site, but no one wanted to comment on the record. However, they did tell this reporter that all of the supplies necessary for repairs are in, and a May reopening is realistic.

Lung said she couldn’t comment on whether the extensive repairs will result in any price changes for customers.

“That’s not a question for me to answer at this time, but I will keep you posted,’’ Lung said. “We’re really focused on getting this theatre back up and running and getting the community back out to the movies.’’

Lung added that the company is keeping staff up to date with the progress on repairs.

“In the fall when it happened, it was so immediate. We’re waiting for the renos to be completed so keeping (employees) informed and supported is certainly one of the priorities,’’ Lung said. “I don’t think anybody thought back in the fall that it would reopen overnight but, at the same time, (no one thought) it would be two seasons later.’’

She said once dates start to firm up, the company will be looking to do something to celebrate the reopening that involves welcoming customers back.