Refurbishment work began this week on three of the multiplex’s six cinemas, Hoyts Charlestown and Erina location manager Michael King said yesterday.

New seating and a new candy bar will be installed and all cinemas will be converted to digital projection technology, with several capable of showing 3D films.

‘‘It was important for Hoyts that we continued our relationship with the Newcastle community,’’ Mr King said.

Hoyts has operated in the Hunter for 70 years.

It moved from the twin-screen Theatre Royal on Hunter Street, Newcastle, to Charlestown in 1989.

Mr King said the opening last October of rival Reading’s eight-screen cinema, including Gold Lounge options, at nearby Charlestown Square had not hurt Hoyts’ $9.90-a-ticket trade.

‘‘It was inevitable that a new entrant with new offers would attract customers,’’ Mr King said. ‘‘We have a loyal customer base and we know that our competitive price point has been a key feature of the decision-making process when going to the movies.’’

With Reading cutting Gold Lounge tickets to $20 in recent weeks, Hoyts is likely to continue its discount ticket price.

‘‘We don’t openly discuss our pricing strategies but ... it’s our intention to continue to provide great-value entertainment and we believe our customers will be extremely happy with the pricing,’’ Mr King said.

The new lease to keep Hoyts in Charlestown was negotiated by Peter Snelgar, of Bale Boshev Lawyers.

The cinema, which employs 50 mostly casual staff, will continue to operate during the refurbishment.