CINEWORLD has said audience numbers have been weaker than expected and will stay low until November due to “limited” film releases.

The group, which operates Poole’s 16-screen multiplex at Tower Park, had pinned its hopes on releases such as Top Gun: Maverick, The Batman and Thor: Love And Thunder to aid its recovery from the heavy impact of the pandemic.

However, in a statement the firm said: "Despite a gradual recovery of demand since reopening in April 2021, recent admission levels have been below expectations.

"These lower levels of admissions are due to a limited film slate that is anticipated to continue until November 2022 and are expected to negatively impact trading and the group's liquidity position in the near term."

Cineworld said it will continue with cost-saving plans but will also look at new options to improve its financial position.

The business, which was saddled with 4.8 billion US dollars of debt at the end of the last financial year, said it is in talks with stakeholders over potential funding or considering restructuring its balance sheet.

Cineworld said: "The group's business operations are expected to remain unaffected by these efforts and Cineworld expects to continue to meet its ongoing business counterparty obligations.

"Cineworld continues to welcome guests to its cinemas across its global markets as normal, without disruption."

It comes after the business posted a loss of 565.8m dollars in 2021 as revenues were boosted by higher admissions.