Chester’s beloved Storyhouse, a cornerstone cultural venue, is on the brink of securing a significant lease extension.
This move is expected to reinforce the venue’s role in arts and culture, fostering continued growth and engagement.
Approval for Lease Extension
Council leaders in Cheshire West and Chester are poised to approve a decade-long extension of the lease for the prominent Storyhouse venue. The council’s ruling cabinet is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, where they are anticipated to support the extension of both the current lease and service contract with the cultural hub. This decision underscores the local government’s commitment to nurturing cultural spaces.
Storyhouse: A Cultural Powerhouse
Initiated in 2017 within the renovated Art Deco Grade II-listed former Odeon Cinema, Storyhouse stands as a £37 million complex featuring an 800-seat auditorium, a 150-seat studio theatre, a restaurant, two bars, and a 100-seat independent cinema. The venue supports over 130 community groups and orchestrates a series of festivals, including the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre and Moonlight Flicks. The lease extension proposal plans to lengthen the existing term, which is due to expire in 2037, until 2047. This ensures continuity and strategic growth.
Benefits of the Extended Partnership
A report delivered to the cabinet highlights the advantages of prolonging the partnership, emphasizing the sustained benefits for both the council and Storyhouse. The extension will enhance Storyhouse’s strategic plans and enable the pursuit of additional external investment amid decreasing council funding. The venue’s future financial resilience and sustainability are considered critical outcomes of this proposed extension.
Visitor Impact and Economic Contribution
Storyhouse attracts over 700,000 visitors annually, with nearly 40% traveling from beyond the local area, underlining its regional appeal. The venue supports an average of 142 jobs each year, contributing significantly to the local economy. Last year alone, £2 million was spent with local suppliers, showcasing Storyhouse’s economic footprint and community impact.
As a provider of arts and culture within the borough, and on a regional and national scale, Storyhouse’s need for security of tenure is paramount for the continuity of footfall. It also enables the exploration of growth opportunities through diverse arts and culture programmes, fostering a vibrant cultural environment.
Strategic Plans for the Future
The ability for Storyhouse to adapt to changing needs, economic circumstances, and shifts in service use is dependent on sustained operational security. Future plans include expanding its offerings to a broader demographic, thus ensuring the venue remains a cornerstone of cultural engagement. The potential for growth, supported by external funding, is a critical factor for long-term success.
The proposed lease extension provides the necessary assurance for Storyhouse to continue developing its wide-reaching arts and cultural agenda. This approach aligns with the venue’s mission to deliver a sustainable and expansive cultural offer that meets the evolving needs of its audience.
Financial Resilience and Sustainability
Financial resilience and sustainability are pivotal to Storyhouse’s operational model. The proposed lease extension aids in securing the venue’s financial future, enabling it to maintain a robust cultural presence. The ability to evolve in response to economic pressures is a key aspect of the venue’s strategy.
Storyhouse’s impact on the local economy and its role as a cultural hub underline the necessity of this extension. The commitment to delivering high-quality arts and cultural experiences is at the heart of Storyhouse’s mission, ensuring it remains a beacon of cultural vitality.
Conclusion of Review
With the anticipated approval of the lease extension, Storyhouse is set to continue its trajectory as a cultural epicentre. This move ensures that the venue will remain an integral part of the community for years to come.
The lease extension for Storyhouse is set to fortify its position as a cultural landmark.
Such strategic moves ensure sustained benefits for both the local community and the broader arts sector.
