THE cinema in Accrington is set to close this month - but only for three days while new owners Vue carry out refurbishments.

An overhaul of the entire cinema is taking place with major improvements to the foyer and the installation of digital surround sound, acoustic panelling and new state-of-the-art projectors.

The cinema will be closed from June 14 to 17 but re-opens on June 18 with all films at £3 for three days.

Vue, the new name for all Warner Village and SBC cinemas, have taken over the running of the £3.5million cinema.

It opened as The Viaduct in 2002 along with a 20-lane Superbowl and McDonalds drive-thru restaurant in Hyndburn Road.

Vue, which is also building a new 10-screen cinema in the centre of Blackburn, took over the cinema in a deal believed to be worth £850,000, last month.

The cinema has had a rough time since opening two years ago.

Metroplex, the company originally lined up to run the cinema, sold its share to another company before the doors opened in November 2002.

Somerset-based GSX Leisure closed the cinema last September, blaming financial problems. It re-opened when Globe Enterprises, a company 33 per cent owned by Hyndburn Council, took over while a new buyer was sought.

Tim Richards, chief executive of Vue, said: " The improvements will dramatically enhance delivery and enjoyment of the films.

"The external branding will change to Vue and the internal foyer areas will be altered to include a pick 'n' mix and small ice cream concession.

"Casual and comfortable seating will also be added in the foyer.

"In Accrington, as elsewhere, we will look to work as closely as possible with the residents, businesses and local council to make sure the cinema plays a central role in the local community."