The Storyhouse in Chester is poised for a significant lease extension.
- Cheshire West and Chester council leaders plan to extend Storyhouse’s lease until 2047 to secure its future.
- The cultural venue includes amenities like a theater, studio, restaurant, and cinema, and supports over 130 community groups.
- Storyhouse’s annual visitor count surpasses 700,000, with significant economic contributions to the local area.
- The extension aims to help Storyhouse maintain financial stability and seek external investments.
The Storyhouse cultural center in Chester, established in 2017, is set to have its lease extended by another decade, as council leaders in Cheshire West and Chester prepare to approve the proposal. This decision, expected to be backed at the upcoming cabinet meeting, will extend the lease and service contract to 2047, providing long-term security for this vital cultural hub.
Housed in the renovated Art Deco Grade II-listed former Odeon Cinema, the £37 million facility features an 800-seat auditorium, a 150-seat studio theater, as well as dining options including a restaurant and two bars. Additionally, a 100-seat independent cinema offers further entertainment choices. Over 130 community groups are supported by Storyhouse, which also organizes events such as the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre and Moonlight Flicks.
The proposed lease extension, originally set to expire in 2037, is seen as crucial for enabling Storyhouse to develop its strategic plans and attract additional external investment. This comes at a time when council funding has seen reductions, necessitating a focus on financial resilience and sustainability. The partnership with the council is highlighted as a means to ensure continued benefits and support for the venue.
Storyhouse draws a vast audience, with over 700,000 visitors each year, of which around 40% travel from outside the local region. This influx of visitors plays a significant role in the local economy, supporting approximately 142 jobs annually, and contributing £2 million to local suppliers in the past year.
The venue’s ability to deliver a wide-ranging arts and cultural offer is contingent upon its adaptability to changing economic circumstances and service demands. Ensuring security of tenure through lease extension is vital for maintaining a continuous flow of visitors and exploring growth opportunities through diverse programming and funding avenues.
The lease extension for Storyhouse is pivotal in securing its long-term role as a cultural cornerstone in Chester, promoting sustainability and economic growth.
