Preston Guild Hall placed on Theatres at Risk Register amid calls for government support
Campaign for Guild Hall revival gains national attention
Preston’s Guild Hall has been added to the Theatres Trust's Theatres at Risk Register, highlighting challenges facing its refurbishment or replacement.
The venue is among 39 theatres deemed under threat due to structural issues, including reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete in its roof.
Despite lobbying efforts by local stakeholders, the government’s response has been described as lukewarm, redirecting appeals to the Arts Council.
The Guild Hall, which closed in 2019, has been without a high-profile entertainment venue since its opening in 1973, although the Guild Lounge opened in an unaffected area in 2024.
Preston City Council is exploring renovation costs and the potential for a new facility, estimated between £60m and £100m.
Local MPs have approached Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy for support, with limited results according to Preston BID manager, Mark Whittle.
Whittle expressed the need for government intervention to secure Preston’s cultural asset and its future as a regional entertainment venue.
Arts Council England Director Jen Cleary endorsed Preston’s efforts to explore the Guild Hall’s future, promising continued support and advice.
City Council leader Matthew Brown welcomed the Theatres Trust’s spotlight, seeing it as an aid in garnering national attention and support for the project.
The council, working with consultancy IPW, expects to receive the feasibility report later this year.