Work begins on major upgrade at Blackpool cinema

The Arc Cinema Blackpool is undergoing a major refurbishment, with luxury seating and new screens planned ahead of the summer blockbuster season.

Work has officially started on a significant upgrade of The Arc Cinema Blackpool, marking the latest stage in the venue’s transformation following its takeover of the former Backlot Cinema in August 2025.

The town centre cinema became part of The Arc Cinema group last summer, joining a growing portfolio of sites across the UK. At the time, the company retained the existing staff and introduced a simplified pricing model, with tickets starting from £5.95 all day, every day.

Since the rebrand, the venue has continued to operate from its central location at Houndshill Shopping Centre, where customers benefit from free parking and a familiar local team.

Now, attention turns to a substantial internal upgrade aimed at improving the overall cinema-going experience. More than 300 electric recliner seats are set to be installed across all nine auditoriums, replacing existing seating with what the company describes as a premium, comfort-focused offering.

Two previously unfinished screens are also being completed as part of the works, increasing capacity from seven to nine screens and positioning the site as a larger entertainment destination within the resort.

The venue will continue to house Lancashire’s only IMAX screen, with a large proportion of seats in the auditorium being upgraded to recliners. A mix of luxury seating and standard options will remain available.

Further improvements are planned for the foyer and lobby areas, with changes designed to improve layout, customer flow and the overall arrival experience.

Despite the scale of the refurbishment, the cinema will remain open throughout the works. Some disruption is expected, with possible changes to screening schedules and film availability during different phases of the project.

Ben Jones, General Manager of The Arc Cinema Blackpool, said:

"This is a really exciting moment for us and for Blackpool cinema-goers. Since joining The Arc Cinema, we’ve focused on delivering fantastic value with tickets from just £5.95, free parking and the same brilliant local team customers already know and love. Now we’re taking things to the next level with the addition of the famous luxury recliner seating and major improvements throughout the building."

The refurbishment is expected to be completed ahead of the summer holidays, in time for a packed release schedule including Toy Story 5, Supergirl, Minions 3, Moana and The Odyssey, which is expected to be a major draw for audiences at the IMAX screen.