An independent cinema and art centre in Leicester is planning to reduce its opening hours as part of cost cutting measures

In a statement to customers, Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre said they are considering no longer opening seven days a week, and instead are proposing to open five days a week (Thursday to Monday) from April.

They said a final decision would be made in March.

It was claimed that financial stability would be deepened in April by the additional liability on Employers’ National Insurance contributions as a result of the government’s Budget and they are also expecting the loss of a significant grant.

A spokesman for the Phoenix said: “We face immediate financial challenges that we must address now.

“We’ve worked hard to grow our audiences and develop new income streams, and we’ve taken steps to cut costs wherever possible, but sadly these measures are not enough and it has become clear that we cannot continue in our current form.

“Therefore, we are proposing to open five days a week from April.

“We would continue to offer a full and vibrant programme of cinema, art and learning opportunities, and our Café Bar would operate as normal within our revised opening times.

They added: “It is essential that we reduce costs so we can rebuild our funds, improve our financial stability and secure Phoenix’s future – this proposal is a vital step in that process.”