Proposal aims to offer long-term lease for theatre

The Stag opened in 1936 as the Majestic Cinema, which operated as a 1,360-seater venue

A Kent theatre could fall under a new long-term lease arrangement under proposals to be considered by a council.

Sevenoaks District Council's (SDC) finance and investment advisory committee will meet on Tuesday to discuss granting the Stag Theatre to Sevenoaks Town Council on a 100-year lease.

The Stag, which opened as the Majestic Cinema in 1936, underwent major changes in the 1970s with the construction of two cinema screens and a reduction to 450 seats.

Kevin Maskell, the council's cabinet member for finance and investments, said the change would help the town council "make long-term plans".

He said: "The time is right to consider offering Sevenoaks Town Council a 100-year lease.

"This will help the town council make long-term plans, including new investment in this much-loved centre, benefitting theatre and cinema goers and local businesses alike."

The council purchased the facility in 1985, and it was subsequently operated by the Sevenoaks Theatre Action Group (STAG).

Following financial difficulties, Sevenoaks Town Council took over the lease in 2009 and changed the name to the Stag Community Arts Centre.

For the last 16 years, the centre has been operated by a charity set up by the town council.

The proposal will be separately considered by the SDC cabinet on 18 September, with a final decision to be taken on 19 November.