1970s theatre 'not worth spending millions on'

Spending millions of pounds on a town's "ageing" theatre, which opened in 1971, is not good value for money, a council has said.

Swindon Borough Council member Matthew Vallender said while the Wyvern had been "at the heart" of the town's culture for more than 50 years, the authority had to be "realistic" and develop the case for a modern, purpose-built theatre.

However Jim Robbins, leader of the previous Labour administration, accused the Conservatives on the council of having a lack of ambition.

Labour's plans for a new 2,000-capacity venue on site of the town's demolished bus station were announced earlier this year.

"Labour see the Entertainment Venue as the priority, due to its importance in demonstrating regeneration is really happening in Swindon town centre," Robbins said.

Vallender, who said the Wyvern building was "approaching the end of its economic life" said the council was now focused on securing a "long-term future for arts and entertainment" in Swindon.

"In the meantime, we will continue working with the Wyvern's operator to keep the theatre open and operating safely for as long as practicable," he added, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Councillor Sara Godwin said for her party, Reform, "protecting the current theatre provision" came first.

"The council should publish a clear comparison of refurbishing the Wyvern and building the proposed new venue, including construction costs, ongoing maintenance, expected income and any subsidy or borrowing required," she said.

Theatre Director at Wyvern Theatre and Swindon Arts Centre Laura James said: "We fully support and welcome the council's plans for a new venue for Swindon.

"In the meantime, the Wyvern Theatre, along with Swindon Arts Centre, continue to play an integral part in Swindon's cultural scene."

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