Cannock Chase District Council will discuss plans to save the Prince of Wales Theatre, which has been closed since April last year and was previously earmarked for demolition.
Senior councillors will consider a report on Thursday 20 August that sets out two options for the theatre's future. One option is to retain and refurbish the building at a cost of several million pounds. The other is to continue with the existing 'Development Framework' – which would demolish the theatre as part of a wider town centre regeneration scheme.
What residents want
Council leader Paul Jones said that saving the theatre has been identified as a priority by residents. He stated: "Our residents were telling us on the doorsteps that they wanted their Theatre back and we must take their views into account before coming to this extremely important decision."
Jones added that the council has commissioned further reports to ensure it has the answers needed for the cabinet discussion. "It is crucial we come to a decision so that the programme of work in our town centre can move forward," he said.
Wider regeneration context
The theatre closure is part of larger regeneration efforts in Cannock town centre. The multi-storey car park has already been demolished, and vacant retail units and Forum Shopping Centre have been purchased and flattened to create opportunities for potential investors.
Under the Development Framework option, the theatre site could be developed predominantly for residential use, with some retail, commercial, cultural and educational facilities included.
Funding and next steps
Cannock Chase District Council has around £14m remaining from government funds secured for town centre regeneration work. Regardless of which option is chosen, the council will proceed with plans to refurbish Beecroft Road car park and improve the adjacent steps and access to the underpass.
The full cabinet report is available on the Cannock Chase District Council website ahead of the 20 August meeting.
