Council outlines plans for future of vacant theatre

A council has outlined its plans for the future of a Surrey theatre that closed after recording losses of £250,000.

The operators of the Electric Theatre in Guildford cancelled shows from April last year after recording the losses in 2023-24.

Guildford Borough Council has announced plans to complete building surveys, identify required remedial work and determine whether a community-focused arts venue is viable.

Council leader Julia McShane said: "I've been touched by the level of community interest in the future of the Electric Theatre. It's clear this venue means a great deal to many people in our borough."

The council-owned theatre was leased out to ACM Commercial Ltd until it went into administration in May 2025, with the lease being surrendered to the council in August 2025.

Surveys have been commissioned to understand the extent of the repair and maintenance required, and associated costs, before the property can be re-occupied, the council said.

The authority said the theatre's closure sparked a "strong community reaction", adding that it was committed to engaging with residents and stakeholders to find a viable future for the theatre.

Performers, venue operators and stakeholders recently attended a roundtable discussion about the future of the theatre.

Michelle Carwardine-Palmer, head of theatre management at the Theatres Trust, said: "We joined the roundtable to hear what stakeholders had to say about The Electric Theatre, what it means to them and how we can keep it open for everyone within Guildford and the surrounding areas."

McShane said the council would consider a report on the future of the theatre at an executive meeting on 26 February.

"This report brings together insightful findings from our recent public engagement, including a community survey, and roundtable discussion that was full of energy, insight and passion," she added.

"The report recommends exploring options for this much-loved theatre as an arts and performance venue, provided that an independent viability assessment and market feedback show this can be delivered sustainably."

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