Is the Woolwich Grand Theatre under threat of redevelopment? Yes, it is, if the leaflet sent to people living nearby is true. It is an invitation to a consultation event about a proposal to redevelop the site. The leaflet I saw said:
INVITATION TO CONSULTATION EVENT
Proposals for 38 Wellington Street
You are invited to view and comment on proposals for the site of the former Grand Theatre and Regal Cinema at 38 Wellington Street for a mixed use development incorporating commercial on ground floor with residential uses
Event details:
Thursday 26th September 2013 from 2pm to 5.30pm at 9-11 Gunnery Terrace, Room 22 Gunnery House, Woolwich Arsenal, London SE18 6SW
The leaflet I saw had no indication who had produced it or who was running the consultation event. I couldn’t find any application for planning permission for the redevelopment of the site, so I guess this must be an early stage consultation before permission is applied for.
What a set-back for Woolwich town centre this would be – removing one of the few places where cultural activities such as film, music and other events can and do take place. And how discouraging for the people who have worked hard to bring such cultural activities to the town.
Also it doesn’t seem consistent with the Woolwich Master Plan which states that the cultural use should be promoted in the Bathway Quarter where the Grand is located. It also says:
The protection of the town centre’s important heritage value should continue. This will be enhanced by the refurbishment and bringing back into use of historic buildings within the Bathway Quarter. This area should also be given additional heritage protection to conserve its distinct character, as should Powis Street and Hare Street.
I wonder what happened to that additional protection, and the proposal to designate the Bathway Quarter and Powis and Hare Street as Conservation Areas?
It’s a shame that the consultation event is during office hours, but I hope that won’t stop people going along to support the Woolwich Grand.
O no, not more commercial development ,at the expense of the local community,
I posted a question on the Woolwich Grand Facebook page and received a reply today. I hope the transcript of the thread below makes sense.
Deborah O’Boyle
I have heard that there is to be a public consultation regarding redevelopment of the building. Is this so?
Like · · 21 September at 23:29
The Woolwich Grand Theatre Hi Deborah,
It is with great regret that our plans to redevelop the building is as yet only plans, and those responsible have not submitted to the council yet. For diplomatic reasons we are unable discuss this in depth.
If you support the Woolwich Grand Theatre and want to show your continued support, get your tickets for We Love Woolwich Festival, this Friday-Sunday (27th-29th) We’ll provide the funny and tunes, you provide the laughs and claps. Tickets available online at http://www.wegottickets.com/festivals/f/6686 or come say ‘Hiya!’ at our box office at 38 Wellington Street.
Festival Tickets from WeGotTickets – Your Online Box Office – WE LOVE WOOLWICH FESTIVAL
http://www.wegottickets.com
Discover the best festivals taking place in the UK and beyond – buy your tickets here.
6 hours ago · Like..
Deborah O’Boyle Thank you for this. I’ll pass it on.