Talks taking place to save theatre and museum

The Prince of Wales Theatre is due to close temporarily in April, but could be closed permanently unless alternative plans are agreed

Talks have taken place with "interested parties" hoping to save a theatre and museum in Staffordshire, a council leader has said.

It follows financial measures, revealed last year by Cannock Chase District Council, to close the Prince of Wales Theatre and Museum of Cannock Chase in order to protect frontline services.

Cannock Chase Council leader Tony Johnson said he had been leading the talks following feedback after public consultation.

The authority said more than 2,000 people responded to the consultation regarding plans to reduce a projected £1.3m gap in the council budget.

Parties are expected to put forward a business plan to run both venues, with funding offered by the local authority to support their proposals.

A survey of the theatre revealed £2.2m would need to be spent on it over the next 10 years, including £1.4m in the first two years, the council said.

The local authority confirmed the cost of running of the theatre is currently subsidised by £167,000 per year and the museum by £256,000 per year.

"I have promised to do all I can to save the theatre and museum and that is why I am pleased we are working with interested parties and are able to support them with specialist consultancy," Mr Johnson said.

The Museum of Cannock Chase has also been earmarked for closure

'Extremely challenging'

At present, the theatre is due to close temporarily at the end of April, but it could close permanently if alternative plans are not agreed.

He added: "In every discussion with colleagues, residents and organisations, I have had to stress that the council is facing an extremely challenging financial situation.

"We must have a balanced budget for the future which protects the vital frontline services we provide to our communities," he continued.

The district council's leisure and cultural offer is currently run for them by Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles and includes the museum and theatre, as well as leisure centres in Cannock and Rugeley.

A report will be discussed at a meeting of the full council next month.