Two towns left without cinema as Majestic rolls final credits

The cinema chain went into voluntary administration earlier this month and is going through a restructure to survive an industry-wide downturn in box office sales, which have been affected by to COVID-19, the recent Hollywood writers strike and natural disasters.

Majestic chief executive officer Kieren Dell said the company wanted to retain the Singleton and Nelson Bay sites, but negotiations with the landlords broke down.

"Unfortunately, during this process we were unable to come to terms with the owners of the building and as such, it has become clear to the administrators that there was no longer a reasonable prospect of being able to operate this cinema complex profitably and sustainably into the future," he said.

Another Majestic cinema in Wynnum, Queensland, was also shut down.

"This decision is part of a broader effort by the [administrators] SV Partners team to ensure the sustainability and success of Majestic Cinemas," Mr Dell said.

"By concentrating resources and efforts on the remaining six locations, the company aims to deliver an improved cinematic experience, ensuring Majestic Cinemas remains a beloved part of the community's entertainment options.

"We are so appreciative of the community support we have received throughout this challenging time and understand what an integral part Majestic Cinemas is to the entertainment landscape in all our locations.

"The closure of these three sites, while regrettable, will allow us to recalibrate our strategy and run a more focused, cost-effective operation with the intention of positioning the business for success into the future."

Singleton mayor Sue Moore said it was always sad when a venue that contributed to the town's livability factor closed.

"We had the same reaction when the ten-pin bowling closed down, people question where they're kids are going to go for entertainment," Cr Moore said

"Obviously it closed down because it was no longer commercially viable and it goes to show that we've got to use these facilities or we'll lose them.

"I spoke with someone recently who took her children to the movies in the holidays and they were the only ones in the cinema, which is exactly why it's no longer viable."

She had spoken to one business owner who had indicated their interest in purchasing the site "to give it a refresh" if they could find a business partner.

Majestic's sites at Port Macquarie, Inverell, Kempsey, Sawtell, Nambour and Nambucca Heads survived.