TWO Island theatres have been given a last-minute reprieve after being threatened with closure.
The Isle of Wight Council was due to consider the fate of both Ryde and Shanklin theatres on Tuesday but the paper — which would have recommended the closure of both venues — was deferred after council leader and Shanklin councillor, Cllr David Pugh, asked for more time for further debate and consultation with the community.
The future of both iconic buildings will now be considered by cabinet on January 19 next year.
But Cllr Pugh warned: "Unless there are new and robust proposals coming forward before then it is likely a recommendation for closure will be presented to this meeting. We have asked IW councillors to undertake work with their local communities before January to bring forward such proposals.
"I am already working with my fellow councillors in the bay area, and I know that Ryde members are doing the same. I am determined that we find a long-term solution for both venues, that will secure their futures."
In the current economic climate, Cllr Pugh said the council could not maintain an open-ended commitment to funding arts-related activity on the scale it had been.
The Friends of Shanklin Theatre (FOST) are calling for people to voice their support by writing to the cabinet or their local councillor.
"It will be a terrible day if this lovely theatre shuts, we need the people in the area to get out and see the shows here this winter, a rescue plan will only work if people get behind it. Next year may be too late," said FOST chairman, Barrie James.
At Ryde, Cllr Wayne Whittle said the situation was looking more positive with negotiations ongoing with a prospective leaseholder.
Reporter: martinn@iwcpmail.co.uk