Wallingford’s popular theatre and cinema, Corn Exchange, has announced it will be opening in September, but it could only be open for cinema screenings.

The Government have allowed cinemas to open since July 4, however there is currently no date for when theatres will be allowed to re-open for live performances.

Staff at Corn Exchange Wallingford have explained that because it is both a cinema and a theatre, only films will be shown when they first reopen.

Corn Exchange Wallingford made an opening statement announcing the venue will be opened from September.

It said: “We are totally committed to the health, safety and well-being of our fantastic volunteers and our loyal and supportive audience, and are working hard to ensure we make the Corn Exchange as safe as possible for all our visitors.

“We are taking professional health and safety advice on how best to modify our unique building, create covid-19 safe procedures and ensure everyone is fully trained.

“We will also be using this enforced shut-down period to complete our annual maintenance tasks.

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“Because we are all volunteers, this will take us some time, so we will not be re-opening until at least the beginning of September 2020.

“Re-opening will also depend on the status of the virus and government guidelines at the time.

"We will update you on any further developments as and when we have them. We will also be eagerly awaiting advice from the Government on when we can resume live performances and theatre.”

John Evans marketing director, Corn Exchange Wallingford added: “We are incredibly grateful for your support and passion for the Corn Exchange, and we look forward to welcoming you back to our wonderful and sorely missed venue.”