Council Scrutiny Call-In Branded a Blow to Local Democracy

Cannock Chase District Council is facing growing criticism after concerns were raised about its approach to the future of the town’s theatre, despite having secured £20 million in Levelling Up funding for Cannock Town Centre. The upgrade of the theatre, currently costed at around £2.5 million, had originally formed part of the bid that helped secure the government investment, yet councillors clashed over whether the venue should demolished.

During tonights meeting, councillors heard that the authority could not confirm whether the theatre was structurally sound. Senior figures also admitted they were unsure about inflation rates or how inflation would affect project costs. The council’s leader argued that anyone in their position would face the same financial pressures when making decisions of this scale.

County Councillor Daniel Cecil, representing Reform UK, said his party would focus on efficiencies to keep the theatre open, adding that many councillors across different parties were trying to preserve the venue. He criticised the council’s stance after the Labour leader was quoted saying “the sooner it’s gone the better”.

Further concerns were raised when the leader was unable to recall the name of the company that carried out the consultation work. Critics argued that the council had failed to consult relevant specialists, while the Theatre Trust told the meeting that refurbishment would cost significantly less than building a new venue. The trust also warned that demolition alone could exceed £1 million.

The council leader claimed that a tendering process could not be completed within 9 to 12 months, although Cannock’s Theatre Trust, set up to try and save the theatre, said it had completed a similar process in just three months. Questions were also raised about how the council could make an informed decision without knowing the demolition cost or identifying where the funding for it would come from.

Although the council has repeatedly stated that there will be a future provision for performing arts, it has not confirmed what form this would take or how many seats a new venue might include.

The dispute has intensified local frustration, with campaigners arguing that the council is the only body not working to keep the theatre open.

Minutes after the meeting ended, the same council leader formally requested that this year’s local elections be cancelled. The request came despite the fact that both the leader and his wife were due to defend their seats in the upcoming vote, with several councillors noting that the outcome could have resulted in both losing their positions.