Replacement needed for Tunbridge Wells theatre
Funding is being sought to undertake a series of repairs to the landmark Assembly Hall theatre in the Tunbridge Wells area, but the council leader has argued that they are merely a temporary solution.
Kent Council is seeking to secure around £1.5 million for replacing seats, making repairs to the leaky roof and improving the stage, air conditioning system, and electrical supply at the 75-year-old theatre.
However, David Jukes, the Kent Council leader, said that a completely new building would eventually be required. He explained:
A report into the cost of building a replacement theatre, believed to be in the region of £25 million, is currently under consideration by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Jukes stated that the cost would be met by the council, via the disposal of assets.
Such theatres are crucial to community and cultural life, and provide opportunities for local businesses, like print companies in the Tunbridge Wells area that supply poster and flyer printing. Jukes confirmed that the Assembly Hall building would not be sold or knocked down until a replacement theatre was ready.
It is hoped that the necessary funding will be raised within seven years.
Kent Council is seeking to secure around £1.5 million for replacing seats, making repairs to the leaky roof and improving the stage, air conditioning system, and electrical supply at the 75-year-old theatre.
However, David Jukes, the Kent Council leader, said that a completely new building would eventually be required. He explained:
“In the long term, in the next six or seven years, we have got to think about having a completely new theatre.
“I want Tunbridge Wells to be the cultural centre of East Sussex, East Surrey and West Kent.”
A report into the cost of building a replacement theatre, believed to be in the region of £25 million, is currently under consideration by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Jukes stated that the cost would be met by the council, via the disposal of assets.
Such theatres are crucial to community and cultural life, and provide opportunities for local businesses, like print companies in the Tunbridge Wells area that supply poster and flyer printing. Jukes confirmed that the Assembly Hall building would not be sold or knocked down until a replacement theatre was ready.
It is hoped that the necessary funding will be raised within seven years.