Newton Abbot to get theatre space

But not specifically for community use

The regeneration of Newton Abbot town centre will include a space for theatre, musical performances dance and comedy – but it would not be financially viable for a specific community arts theatre site.

The proposals for the major redevelopment of the Market Hall, Market Square and the old Alexandra cinema area will include a new eating quarter, a new cinema, a remodelled entertainment and events venue and a quality market space.

The current Alexandra cinema will be converted into a bar/restaurant and events venue with a ‘flexible multi-use entertainments space,’ leaving no dedicated space specifically for live theatre and the arts.

The Friends of the Alexandra Theatre asked questions over the proposed redevelopment of the site as part of the submission to the Future High Street Fund at a Teignbridge District Council meeting. They want to know if there's an option to amend the plans and asked if the council would say how much it would cost for an independent group to take over the theatre and run as a community hub arts theatre.

Cllr Nina Jeffries, portfolio holder for business, economy and tourism, said it would be difficult to fund a small theatre and ensure its future without large subsidies. In her response to the questions, she said: “In the current financial climate, theatres around the country are struggling now, more than ever to remain open. We need to be realistic that funding a community hub without a guarantee of income would be extremely difficult, threaten the longer term future of both the Alexandra and Market Hall buildings.

“The Future High Street Funding team at Teignbridge was responsible for the new Pavilions in Teignmouth. For some in the town, losing the old Carlton Theatre was a blow, however, Pavilions is now a much loved, hugely successful space enjoyed by thousands over the years. During the planning for Pavilions, team members visited many small theatres around the westcountry and know first-hand just how difficult it is to fund a small theatre and ensure the future of such buildings without large subsidies.

“The improvements extend to include greenery and seating within Market Square and the ability to host various events, live entertainment and performances from the Square, into the Alexandra and Market Hall buildings.

“Alongside the new cinema and Market Walk we are providing a destination for the wider area, helping to secure the town’s future. We want to provide a showcase for the many local artists in and around Newton Abbot. There will be space including theatre in the round, musical performances dance and comedy, further supported by a place for the community to shop, eat, drink and socialise.

The Newton Abbot bid for the Future High Streets Fund is made up of four component parts that are interlinked to create a whole package with the total bid application worth in the region of £10-11 million, and if successful, the schemes will go before full council for final approval later in the year.

It includes pedestrian and cycling improvements for better links to shopping facilities, increased parking at Cricketfield car park, and a new cinema built on the site of the existing New Look store, with the current Alexandra cinema converted into a bar/restaurant and events venue, and the reduction of the dominance of the car in Queen Street.