Hillingdon Council has appointed commercial theatre consultants to support its procurement of a long-term operator for the Beck Theatre in Hayes.
The council had been seeking to negotiate a new lease with Trafalgar Theatres for them to continue its management of the facility at a peppercorn rent with the council being responsible for essential repairs and maintenance. Trafalgar has insisted that, in addition, the council pay an ongoing subsidy. The council has determined that this is no longer appropriate with public finances under such pressure, noting Trafalgar Theatres is a profit-making company that pays dividends to its owners.
In the absence of an agreement, Trafalgar’s contract with the council will cease on 13 January and the Beck Theatre will close while the consultants seek new management.
Cllr Ian Edwards, Leader of Hillingdon Council, said: “We recognise the valuable contributions our theatres make to our communities and are committed to retaining a strong community arts and culture offer.
“Council officers and elected councillors continue to work tirelessly to secure the venue’s long-term stability as a commercial theatre without financial subsidy from the taxpayer.
“The consultants will begin their work immediately.”
The council will provide further updates in due course.