STAR readers have been reacting to the news that a temporary drive-in cinema will be in place at the former Chalon Way car park site in the run-up to Christmas.
As the Star reported on Wednesday, the site of the demolished car park will be transformed into an American-style outdoor cinema as well as hosting a variety of other family attractions to entertain during the festive period.
The site of the demolished Chalon Way car park
What is a drive-in cinema?
A drive-in cinema is a form of cinema featuring of a large outdoor movie screen and a large parking area for vehicles. Within this enclosed area, customers can watch films from the privacy and comfort of their own cars.
With a history stretching back to the 1910s drive-in cinemas have been most popular in the United States where many are still in operation, and the Covid pandemic saw a resurgence in their use as regular theatres had to close.
What will be on at the St Helens drive-in?
The big screen will play some of the biggest Christmas favourites including How The Grinch Stole Christmas, The Polar Express, Home Alone and Elf for residents to enjoy.
Elf
The drive-in cinema is set to launch on Saturday, November 20 with a screening of The Greatest Showman.
Greatest Showman
It will then host a screening every Saturday until December 18, with a Christmas classic shown each week.
Home Alone
A full list of the films and dates:
• November 20 - The Greatest Showman
• November 27 – How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000 live action version)
• December 4 - The Polar Express
• December 11 - Home Alone
• December 18 – Elf
How to book
To book for the drive-in cinema experiences visit: StHelensWinterExperience.eventbrite.com
The Greatest Showman: eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-greatest-showman-st-helens-drive-in-cinema-tickets-208196981777
How The Grinch Stole Christmas: eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-grinch-st-helens-drive-in-cinema-tickets-208227121927
What have you been saying?
Star readers have been giving their reaction on social media to the news that a drive-in cinema will be in town.
Some questioned the idea and what benefits it would bring to the town while others welcomed the news and hailed it as a "brilliant idea".
Peter Armstrong said: "What a waste, do they really need one. Try building something to bring the town back to life".
However, Helen Pye said: "Looks like they’re planning to show older Christmas family films in the run up to the festive season. I think it’ll be great for the town".
Neil Sherwood added: "If this was announced to be happening in Liverpool everybody would saying what a brilliant idea it is".
Emma Louise Roberts said: "This is such a good idea, drive in cinemas (which play old films and won't impact Cineworld) make a killing and are super popular. The price per car is reasonable and cheaper than the Manchester one. Not to mention having a Christmas Market and an ice rink, finally something to do in town and even better over Christmas".
Ian Whittaker said: "I think this is a great idea and the kind of things we need in town".
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