Theatre advocacy group has offered to work with Mid Sussex District Council on Clair Hall plans
A theatre advocacy group has offered to work with Mid Sussex District Council on its plans for a new cultural venue
The council recently turned down a community bid to buy or lease the Clair Hall, in Haywards Heath, which closed in 2020.
Instead, an as-yet unnamed cultural company will redevelop the site to provide a four-screen luxury cinema, alongside a multi-use performance space, and a restaurant/bar.
Joshua McTaggart, CEO of Theatres Trust – the national advice and advocacy body for the UK’s theatres – said: ”
“We know many people in the Haywards Heath community will be disappointed by the loss of Clair Hall.
“While Theatres Trust is pleased that the council has committed to developing a new cultural facility, we are disappointed that the proposal appears to be mainly focused on cinema and community facilities linked to this, with limited live performance or theatre use.
“As the council now recognises Clair Hall as a theatre in planning-use terms, we are reiterating our offer of pro-bono expert support to ensure this new development proposal includes an appropriate replacement for the loss of Clair Hall.
“We want to work collaboratively with the council, the new operator, and the selected developer to help facilitate the plans for a new cinema that includes a viable space which can meet the needs of local people, especially amateur theatre groups, who will be impacted by the loss of Clair Hall.”
The Trust added the venue to its Theatres at Risk Register in 2022, as it was the only live performance venue in the area, and was well-used by community theatre groups before the pandemic.
Mr McTaggart said: “Theatres Trust understands the financial considerations that have led Mid Sussex District Council to pursue its plans to replace Clair Hall with an alternative cultural facility.”
A council spokesman said: “Mid Sussex District Council welcomes the Theatres Trust’s statement and response to cabinet’s decision on the future of Clair Hall and look forward to engaging with them to help bring about the best live performance space within the new cultural facility for all residents of Haywards Heath and South Mid Sussex to enjoy in the future.”