We haven’t had a chance to see it in person, but hear from VB readers that there are adverts in the property pages of the County Press this week for the sale of Ryde and Shanklin Theatres.
As we reported back in January, the Cabinet were to make a decision on the future of the theatres following an independent review on the commercial viability and public need for the theatres.
Minutes of the meeting reveal that the council decided on the following
THAT options (b), (c), (f) and (g) be adopted:
b. The Council seeks proposals from commercial A – 2 operators for the redevelopment and management of Ryde theatre making provision for sufficient community use and at no cost to the Council. Such proposals to be considered no later than the end of July 2009.
c. The Council seeks proposals from community groups to undertake the management and maintenance of Ryde theatre at no cost to the Council. Such proposals to be considered no later than the end of July 2009.
f. The Council seeks proposals from commercial operators for the redevelopment and management of Shanklin theatre making provision for sufficient community use and at no cost to the Council. Such proposals to be considered no later than the end of July 2009.
g. The Council seeks proposals from community groups to undertake the management and maintenance of Shanklin theatre at no cost to the Council. Such proposals to be considered no later than the end of July 2009.
We’re not sure whether the IWC has considered any proposals from A-2 operators or community groups yet, but will let you know once we’re able to find out.
In the meantime, we were surprised to hear that the sites are up for sale. As we said, we haven’t seen the adverts ourselves yet, hearing this news second hand.
Back in April last year we caught up with Jazzie B, OBE before his performance at Ryde Theatre. Listen to what he has to say about on the importance of keeping Ryde Theatre open as a functional venue for the community.
Take a listen …
[audio:http://otw-audio.s3.amazonaws.com/Jazzie-B-save-ryde-theatre.mp3]
Image: Courtesy of Rick Stanbridge
