LIVE: Future of Oldham Coliseum discussed at public meeting - latest updates

The future of Oldham Coliseum will be discussed at a public meeting this evening (Tuesday February 21).

Last week, bosses at the historic theatre announced that they were proposing to close the venue at the end of March. It follows a 100pc funding cut from Arts Council England (ACE).

Council chiefs have since revealed that the intend to build a new, smaller £24.5 million theatre, in the old Post Office and former Quaker Meeting House building, in Union Street. A report states that the venue is on target to be open by 2026, with a planning application expected by the summer.

READ MORE : Vision for new £24.5m theatre to replace iconic Oldham Coliseum revealed

However, performing arts and entertainment trade union Equity has called a meeting to allow members of the public to question decision-makers and suggest solutions to keep the 135-year-old Coliseum open.

Bolton-born actress and Equity member Maxine Peake, Oldham Coliseum chief executive Chris Lawson, performer and Equity North West councillor Victoria Brazier, and Equity North West regional official Paul Liversey are all confirmed to be speaking at the event. Representatives from Arts Council England and Oldham Council have also been invited.

The meeting will be held at the Oldham Coliseum, in Fairbottom Street, from 6.30pm. We will be bringing you updates from the meeting in the blog below.

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