Notice of Motion - Alexandra Theatre
To consider Cllr Daws Notice on Motion on the Alexander Theatre referred to Executive by Full Council on 17th October, 2023,
The Alexandra Theatre. Reflecting the distress of the cinema industry and the lack of appetite for the current operator of the Alexandra Theatre, Scott's Cinema's, to expand into any new multiplex, it is proposed that the council members, alongside officers, enter 'blue sky' discussions with Scott's. As the cinema lease is up for renewal in October it would be both in the residents best interests as well of those of a long serving tenant of the council, to explore the potential model of Scott's continuing the operation of a cinema offer at the Alexandra, alongside other extended live entertainment usage, similar to the relationship with NADMCS theatre group, who already use the theatre three weeks of the year. The aim being to protect the provision of a cinema offer to the town and extend the offer of live entertainment within the district in an already fully functioning theatre that is both grade 2 listed and registered as an asset of community value.
Additional documents:
Minutes:
Cllr Daws presented his Notice of Motion on the Alexandra Theatre he stated that it was important the Council worked with the current tenants Scott’s Cinema to explore the potential model of Scott's continuing the operation of a cinema offer at the Alexandra, alongside other extended live entertainment usage. The aim being to protect the provision of a cinema offer to the town and extend the offer of live entertainment within the district in an already fully functioning theatre.
Non-Executive Members spoke on this item in support of Cllr Daws Notice of Motion.
The Leader thanked Cllr Daws for bringing this matter to the attention of the Executive.
RESOLVED that should the opportunity arise to take the matters raised by Cllr Daws forward Executive would consider them along with other options for the Alexandra Theatre as appropriate. Executive would also need to take into account any contractual obligations.
The vote was unanimous.