After careful consideration of all the financial options presented to the Board, the Trustees of Partington Theatre made the difficult decision to withdraw from the purchase of the former NatWest Bank building.

A full explanation of their reasons will be given at the AGM on Friday 22^nd September 2023.

The opportunity to purchase NatWest Bank and realise a vision to create a community arts hub in the centre of Glossop was an exciting prospect. The reality of such a long-term project (to join the two buildings to install a lift, accessible toilets alongside the restructuring of the current theatre to create a state-of-the-art auditorium and stage) would have cost several million pounds in addition to the purchase and running costs of the second building.

The expansion project was a way to enable accessibility for all and for more members of the public to engage with the arts through various new programs and events and allow for more opportunities to experience the performing arts throughout the year. We will endeavour to seek ways in which to fulfil these aims within our own building and to that end will continue to fundraise and apply for grant funding to facilitate this ambition.

All funds raised through the online GoFundMe campaign will be ring-fenced for accessibility projects at Partington Theatre.

In the meantime, we are looking to provide new technologies that assist those in our community with visual or hearing impairments. If anyone wishes to retract their donation to the project, please contact Zoe Bowers via info@partingtontheatre.org.uk.