Hoyts to carry out $6M refurbishment of iconic Cronulla cinema

Hoyts has signed a lease to take over the historic cinema and plans a $6 million refurbishment.

Event Cinemas, the existing lessee, announced last week the cinema, now operating as GU Filmhouse, would close in February 2020.

The Hoyts move was announced by the company's chief executive, Damian Keogh, a Cronulla resident.

Hoyts is the largest single-brand movie exhibitor in Australia and New Zealand, with more than 400 screens and over 50,000 seats across the network.

Mr Keogh said the $6 million refurbishment would include introducing "Hoyts's unparalleled extra-comfy recliner seating, as well as their signature food and beverage offerings with a front-of-house revamp including Treat City and Artie's Bar & Café for the ultimate cinema experience".

The theatre will close in February and reopen with Hoyts branding in July 2020.

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to bring to life the historic Cronulla cinema," Mr Keogh said.

"This year at Hoyts, we celebrated 110 years in the industry and the Cronulla cinema has continued to be a much loved and iconic venue since 1928.

"While the entertainment industry has changed a lot during this time, we know that Australia's love of the cinema remains strong.

"That's why I am excited and proud to be bringing the Hoyts cinema experience to the shire".

Mr Keogh said he "looks forward to delivering one of the very best cinema experiences in the world for local residents".

"I have lived in Sutherland Shire for over thirty years and I know the importance of this iconic building as a special part of the local community," he said.

"I am proud Hoyts will ensure the legacy continues on into the future".

Sutherland Shire mayor Carmelo Pesce said, "I am extremely excited that a successful operator like Hoyts has faith to come to the shire".

Cr Pesce said Mr Keogh had told him Hoyts would make it their best cinema in Australia.