Merlin Cinemas buy former Ayr Odeon and to re-open 'asap'
The former Odeon in Ayr has new owners - Merlin Cinemas have purchased the building and want to re-open 'as soon as possible'
Last updated 9th Aug 2023
The former Odeon Cinema in Ayr has new owners, and they’re reportedly wanting to re-open the venue as soon as possible.
Merlin Cinemas have purchased the building and are rebranding it with the new name of the Astoria Ayr.
The company have 18 cinemas across the UK, including one in Scotland located in Thurso, Caithness.
Local MSP Siobhiann Brown took to social media on Tuesday night to announce the news and said her conversations with the new owner have left her feeling confident of its success.
She told Greatest Hits Radio: “It really is great news that merlin cinemas has bought the Odeon building. This is fantastic for the people of Ayrshire after losing the old cinema so suddenly.
The new owner has told me he’s committed to creating jobs, show film and support the local economy and preserve heritage within the town of Ayr.
“I really hope that everyone will get behind Merlin Cinemas and show support so that Ayr won’t lost a cinema again.
“I want to thank everyone who took time to write to me about saving this wonderful art-deco building and I know there will be many happy people with this great news.
“I’m really looking forward to hearing about the project in the near future and visiting it once the cinema re-opens.”
Local reports of the news suggest that the Cinema will be refreshing and improving the venue.
Greatest Hits Radio has contacted Merlin Cinemas for an official statement.