Guildford council's search starts for new theatre operator

Those interested in running a council-owned theatre, which closed after recording losses of £250,000, are being urged to submit an expression of interest.

Guildford Borough Council, which owns the Electric Theatre, says it wants to understand the level of interest in the community arts venue and identify future management options before a formal procurement process.

Vanessa King, the council's deputy leader, said: "We're keen to hear from the widest range of interested parties, from community-led and charitable organisations through to commercial and alternative-use operators."

Written expressions of interest and completed operator response forms must be submitted by midday on 30 October.

The Surrey council said it was also looking for views on how operators could provide local employment opportunities, affordable pricing, high-quality programming and a resilient business model.

The operators of the Electric Theatre in Guildford cancelled shows from April 2025 after recording the losses in 2023-24.

The theatre was leased out to ACM Commercial Ltd until it went into administration in May 2025, with the lease being surrendered to the council in August that year.

Julia McShane, leader of the council, said: "This has always been about working with our community to find the best way forward.

"The views shared have helped us reach this important stage and will continue to inform the decisions we make as we move ahead."

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook , X , and Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Surrey on Sounds . Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

Council outlines plans for future of vacant theatre

Concerns over future of Electric Theatre

Theatre's future considered after lease ends early