Future agreed for theatre complex

The Stag closed in the summer because of finance problems

A 25-year lease is to be signed to secure the future of an arts venue in Kent which closed in the summer due to financial problems.

The Stag theatre and cinema in Sevenoaks is being transferred to the town council under a long-term deal.

Sevenoaks District Council had proposals from Kent County Council and the town council to run the venue.

District councillor Elaine Bracken said the town council had produced a "vision for a vibrant community facility".

The move was agreed at a meeting of the full council on Tuesday night, she added.

She said the town council planned to reopen the Stag early next year.

But she added: "If it is to succeed, the whole community will need to give its backing and support to the theatre and cinema programme to ensure it remains viable in the years to come."

'Disruption minimised'

The town council proposal includes setting up an independent charity to manage the complex, similar to the model used by East Grinstead Town Council in West Sussex to run the Chequer Mead Community Arts Centre.

Current facilities at the Stag will be retained and no significant building work will be necessary, minimising disruption to the arts community, Ms Bracken said.

The town council is also considering whether to relocate its Tourist Information Centre to the arts complex.

Initially, the authorities will sign a short-term agreement to allow the complex to open in 2009, and a long-term lease will follow.

Kino Holdings Ltd ceased operations at the Stag on 8 July with the loss of 15 jobs.