The Cineworld Group is reportedly preparing to file for bankruptcy after struggling to rebuild attendance following the Covid pandemic.

Cineworld, which also operates Regal Cinemas in the United States, has engaged lawyers from Kirkland & Ellis LLP and consultants from AlixPartners to advise on the bankruptcy process.

It comes after Cineworld warned audience numbers have been weaker than expected and predicted they will stay low until November due to “limited” film releases.

In a statement the firm said: “Despite a gradual recovery of demand since reopening in April 2021, recent admission levels have been below expectations.

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“These lower levels of admissions are due to a limited film slate that is anticipated to continue until November 2022 and are expected to negatively impact trading and the group’s liquidity position in the near term.”

The cinema chain has a number of branches in the North East that could now face closure if the bankruptcy goes ahead.

Here are the North East cinemas that could face closure after Cineworld announces bankruptcy

  • Cineworld Cinema in Middlesbrough

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  • Cineworld in Boldon Colliery

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  • Cineworld in Newcastle upon Tyne

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  • Cineworld in York

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