Spa Pavilion

The future of the Spa Pavilion hangs in the balance after Suffolk Coastal District Council announced it could no longer afford to give the necessary financial commitment to the venue.

An options appraisal on the venue has found that without significant investment the theatre will become unfit for purpose and it is believed it will cost £3million to bring it up to modern standards.

Suffolk Coastal District Council are now calling on entertainment and leisure companies across the country to bring forward proposals to save the Spa.

Geoff Holdcroft, cabinet member for economic development and leisure, said: “The harsh facts are that the Spa is not generating the audiences it used to nor those enjoyed at comparable venues.

“It urgently needs a large financial commitment just to get the building up to scratch and to give it a chance to attract the audiences that would make it viable.”

The council currently spend £250,000 each year for theatre company, Openwide Coastal, to operate the venue. The council are intending to withdraw funding at the end of June.

Ray Holburn, of Openwide Coastal, said: “This is disappointing news but we recognise the financial pressures facing the council, and it has become increasingly clear that the Spa does need a significant and urgent investment to help make it an attractive venue for customers and indeed performers.”

Shows at the Spa will continue as advertised until June.