Two historic Black Country theatres at risk of being lost
Netherton Arts Centre in Dudley and Walsall's Imperial Theatre are on The Theatres Trust's latest at-risk register
Two historic theatres in the Black Country have been named in The Theatres Trust's latest at-risk register.
Netherton Arts Centre in Dudley and Walsall's Imperial Theatre have both been on the at risk register since 2022 and feature again in the 2026 list.
The trust said this year’s 'Theatres at Risk Register' consists of 39 theatres, which all have strong architectural merit, cultural heritage or value to the local community as performance venues.
The Imperial Theatre is described by the trust as "a rare example of a theatre derived from an agricultural hall of 1869, which has retained its original architectural character".
After it was converted to a pub which closed in 2016, the building has been empty, with two failed planning applications to convert it into apartments.
The Theatres Trust said despite being vacant, the venue remains in good condition both internally and externally.
It was put up for sale in 2022, but failed to sell.
The trust said: "We have been in touch with several interested parties who have ambitions to see the theatre reopened for live performance.
"We are supporting these groups through advice on early-stage viability work with the aim of unlocking a means to restoring and reopening the Imperial.
"We will also continue to look to work with the owner, council, and other key stakeholders to take a collaborative approach to finding a viable and sympathetic reuse for this rare and important historic theatre."
Unlike the Imperial however, Netherton Arts Centre, which is owned by Dudley Council, needs improvements.
"The building requires improvement and maintenance work and there appears to be little appetite within the council to carry out this work," The Theatres Trust said.
"There is an added danger that the extent of these necessary works increases as the building lies vacant and vulnerable."
It added: "The prospect of commercial redevelopment that could result from the sale of the building has helped renew support for ‘saving’ the theatre.
"Local groups are keen to see the theatre reopen for the benefit of the community. Cat Eccles MP has been supportive of this ambition and is helping to facilitate conversations between the council and interested groups.
"Theatres Trust will continue to offer support and advice to the council and community groups working to provide a viable use for the building."