It’s welcome news that the Lib Dem-run Elmbridge Borough Council has backed down in its effort to close the precious Cecil Hepworth Playhouse in Walton.
Yesterday, following pressure from local Conservatives and committed users of the playhouse, the council released a statement inviting playhouse users to submit a proposal to take a self-managed lease from April 2023. Importantly, the statement said:
“We understand [the playhouse] is much loved by its users […] it is clear there is strong local feeling about the facility, as well as maintaining the provision of local arts.”
This is a marked contrast from the council’s previous position that the playhouse would be closed from April next year, and shows how important local community campaigning is.
There’s still work to do, but this is a very welcome step forward in the campaign to save this vital community asset.