Ban on heating system at cinema

A heating system cannot be used at the landmark Regal Cinema in Tenbury Wells, which underwent extensive refurbishment after it was damaged in the summer 2007 floods, because of concerns about its safety.

The matter was referred to the Health and Safety Executive earlier this month following a risk assessment by Malvern Hills District Council, ahead of the summer programme of events.

The HSE investigated and an enforcement notice was issued earlier this month which means the kerosene-powered heating system has had to be switched off.

The exact details of the safety concerns have not been revealed.

Libby Galton, press officer for the district council, said: "There is a series of events going on at the Regal this summer. One of the organisers needed to carry out a risk assessment. It's a routine thing."

The initial inspection took place at the request of the event organiser.

A spokesperson for the HSE said: "A prohibition notice has been issued with regard to the heating, so they can't switch it on. The venue itself can carry on as normal."

The HSE said options available to the council included improving the current system or choosing to install something new.

Tenbury Mayor Richard Jones said: "We've obviously got it in hand, but it's very complicated."