Theatre integral to Southport’s future says MP

Originally posted at: https://www.damienmooremp.com/news/southport-theatre-and-convention-centre-is-integral-to-southports-future-says-mp

Southport Theatre and Convention Centre is vital for the future of Southport says MP Damien Moore.

The venue has been closed since March when the Coronavirus outbreak led to theatres, shops, restaurants and other venues across the UK having to close in order to try and stop the transmission of the virus.

Due to the pandemic, the operator of the venue relinquished their short term lease and handed control back to Sefton Council.

Southport Theatre was officially opened by Hollywood star Marlene Dietrich in May 1973 and has attracted many stars over the past few decades, but closed in March due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Reinvesting in Southport Theatre and Convention Centre is one of the possible schemes mentioned in the Southport Town Deal ‘Big Ideas’ with people urged to have their say over the future of Southport, before July 20, online at: https://yourseftonyoursay.sefton.gov.uk/futuresouthport/

Southport MP Damien Moore said: “Southport Theatre and Convention Centre is integral to the long term economic plan for Southport.

“We have had, for many years, a superb offer at the Theatre and Floral Hall and we now need to move that offer into the 21st century with shows and events that will attract audiences from nearby towns as well as cities like Liverpool, and Manchester, and beyond.

“I have been impressed by the growing campaign in Southport to save the venue, which shows the strength of feeling there is in our town.

“I really want to see a Southport Theatre and Convention Centre operating again on that site and bringing in visitors who will benefit local restaurants, hotels, shops and other businesses.”

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 the council to undertake feasibility studies into the future redevelopment of the STCC.

STCC is 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.