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Council agrees next phase in shaping The Electric Theatre’s future

Council agrees next phase in shaping The Electric Theatre’s future

Guildford Borough Council’s Executive has taken another significant step forward in shaping the future of The Electric Theatre, reinforcing its commitment to securing a vibrant, sustainable future for this much loved community arts venue.

Building on the insightful findings gathered through the community survey and roundtable discussion, the Executive has agreed to explore options for The Electric Theatre to continue as an arts and performance venue. This will include options for making the building available for community access.

As part of this next phase, the Council will appoint an independent specialist to assess the viability of a community focused arts venue and advise how such a model could operate effectively within the Council’s current financial constraints. This specialist expertise will ensure the Council has high-quality, impartial advice to guide an informed decision about the future of The Electric Theatre.

Cllr Julia McShane, Leader of Guildford Borough Council, said:
“I’ve been truly touched by the level of community interest in the future of The Electric Theatre. It’s clear this venue means a great deal to many people in our borough.

“Appointing an expert with experience in the arts and culture sector will help us maintain momentum and give us the clarity we need to move forward with confidence.”

Cllr Phil Bellamy, the Lead Councillor for Finance added:
“We’re committed to making well-informed, financially responsible decisions. This independent assessment will provide a clear understanding of what is truly achievable and a well-considered approach for the theatre’s future.”

Phase one will begin immediately and focus on:

  • testing assumptions about how the venue could operate in future
  • understanding what the market can realistically deliver under different operating models
  • ensuring any future decisions are financially responsible and aligned with community need

Once the independent specialist’s viability assessment is complete, the findings will underpin an options report to be presented to the Executive in the summer.

The Council will continue to move this process forward as quickly and efficiently as possible. However, it recognises that any future decisions may require approval from the new Shadow Authority, which will be elected in May.

Offering reassurance to residents, Cllr McShane confirmed:
“We remain firmly committed to keeping residents informed and involved at every stage. As work progresses, we’ll continue to share updates and make sure the community remains at the heart of shaping The Electric Theatre’s future.”

Notes to editors

The full report including the survey analysis and the summary report from the roundtable facilitator, is on our website.

The 2026/27 budget includes some funding (capital provision) to support making the Electric Theatre safe, compliant, and ready for future occupation.

The Council has also commissioned a series of condition surveys to understand what repairs are needed before the building can be safely re occupied. 

Photo supplied: The Electric Theatre


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Press contact: Beverley Stonehouse – e-mail Beverley.Stonehouse@guildford.gov.uk