Decision details

To approve grant funding to the Cheltenham Playhouse Theatre

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member Economic Development, Wellbeing, Culture and Public Open Space

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Decision:

To approve an award of grant funding to the Cheltenham Playhouse Theatre, totalling £25,000

Reasons for the decision:

Following the Cheltenham Playhouse announcement of an urgent fundraising campaign to safeguard its future, the council has stepped in with a £25k grant to support the immediate financial pressures of this treasured community venue.

In the absence of any fixed funding, and with growing pressures and increasing costs, new theatre trustees have developed a long-term masterplan. However, it needs financial support, now, to keep the doors open.

Alternative options considered:

The Council could choose not to support the Playhouse although this could have potential financial implications should this require the venue to close and cease trading. As the owner of the building, liabilities such as business rates and maintenance would fall back to the Council, and given the unlikely alternative use for the building, the venue is likely to be closed for an extended period.

Declarations: None.

Contact: Paul Jones, Deputy Chief Executive (Section 151 Officer) Email: [email protected].

Publication date: 03/06/2025

Date of decision: 03/06/2025