Nearly 2,000 people have joined a campaign to save Southport Theatre & Convention Centre in just 48 hours.
The Facebook group, Save Southport Theatre (STCC) was set up on Saturday by Lisa Kelly, who is determined to “keep the STCC and make it great again”.
The Theatre and Floral Hall were closed due to the Coronavirus lockdown in March with no operator in place.
Investing in the complex is one of the ‘Big Ideas’ mentioned in the current Southport Town Deal wider consultation, which runs until July 20. People are able to submit their views at: https://yourseftonyoursay.sefton.gov.uk/futuresouthport/
Lisa said: “This group is for all those who support the reopening of Southport Theatre and our lovely Floral Hall. You may be aware that we shut our doors in March and the keys were handed back to Sefton Council who own the building.
“As yet there have been no decisions made public on the future of the building but we want to show Sefton Council and any prospective management companies that we the ex employees, businesses and the people of Southport want to keep STCC and make it great again
“It’s a huge asset to Southport and it’s economy and to lose it would be a huge disadvantage to the area.
“Please feel free to give positive posts and feedback and share with us some of your great memories that we’ve all had through the years.”
Read More: Southport Pleasureland to reopen with unlimited rides, 2 metre distancing and a fun day out for families
Lisa has been delighted by the response so far.
She said: “As you can see from the amount of members we’ve had in less than 48 hours, the people of Southport want STCC back up and running.
“First of all we want to know if or when the necessary repairs are going to take place to the building and who will be managing the venue.”
In March, Sefton Council appointed IPW to appraise long-term investment and redevelopment options for Southport Theatre and Convention Centre.
IPW, a specialist sport, venues, entertainment and business events consultancy, is currently working with Sefton Council to undertake feasibility studies into the future redevelopment of the STCC.
Sefton Council recently agreed to invest around £1million to carry out essential remedial works to the venue, which was officially opened by Marlene Dietrich in May 1973.
Southport Theatre. Photo: Sandgrounder Radio
Hundreds of local people are behind the bid to bring the theatre back to life.
Julia Spencer said: “My daughter did her first Junior Ballroom / Latin competition at The Floral Hall having previously competed as a Juvenile. It holds fond memories for a lot of people and is a lovely venue. Please keep this open.
“She went on to become three times World Salsa Champion with Chris Marques and is now a leading Choreographer in France having successfully choreographed for six years on Strictly UK before joining TF1 Paris.
“Places like the Floral Hall help others progress and further their careers in the world of Arts.”
Jenny Barbé said: “My little boy has been so lucky to be the only boy picked for the last two Christmas pantos and also regularly competes at the Floral Hall in ballroom and Latin.
“Fingers crossed it can be saved.”
Local theatre and performing arts director Jacqui Lewis said: “Definitely needs to remain a theatre and convention centre.”
Linda Moss said: “It should remain as a theatre and events centre but make space more useful by including art exhibitions and events in the foyers and bar.”
STCC is already one of the UK’s largest integrated conference centres, offering 14 flexible event spaces suitable for a variety of events, an award-winning hotel and experience facilities including a 1,631-seat theatre auditorium and casino.
The Theatre has enjoyed a rich history, having hosted stellar names including The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Diana Ross and The Four Tops. In more recent years, crowds at the venue have enjoyed comic talent including Peter Kay and The League of Gentlemen.
You can join the Save Southport Theatre (STCC) group on Facebook here.
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