The Palace Byron Bay cinemas have announced they will be closing for a year to enable the redevelopment of the site.
The cinemas will close on 27 January, and are expected to be reopened early in 2017.
Palace Cinemas chief executive Benjamin Zeccola said all existing Byron Bay cinema staff would be considered for roles once the cinema reopened, and with the expansion comes the requirement for new positions, creating employment opportunities for the shire..
The redevelopment will provide six more auditoria, making of total of nine screens.
‘This will give patrons the opportunity to enjoy an even wider range of independent and mainstream films, as well as continuing the cinema’s alternate content program of theatre, opera, ballet, concerts and the ever popular international film festivals,’ Mr Zeccola said.
‘The timetable for reopening will be shared with the community as soon as plans are available and Palace Cinemas look forward to offering our patrons a second-to-none entertainment and hospitality experience at the home of quality cinema in Byron Shire.
Mr Zeccola said existing Movie Club members would automatically have a 12 month extension added to their memberships to cover for the closure.
‘We understand that the upgrades may inconvenience you and as we are dedicated to offering a premium cinematic experience we would love to offer you a twelve month extension on your Movie Club membership.
‘Please hold onto your current membership card as the 12 months will be electronically loaded onto your account from the date of closure.
‘During the closure your Movie Club membership will still be active at all Palace Cinemas nationally.’