West Berkshire Funding Cuts Threaten Theatres

West Berkshire County Council, like other local authorities, is needing to cut its budget for the coming financial year. And as with other local authorities, funding for the theatres within its authority is a target. The two principal playhouses most likely to be affected are The Newbury Watermil and the Newbury Corn Exchange, which also runs the New Greenham Arts Centre.

Hedda Beeby, artistic and executive director of the Watermill, confirms that the proposed funding cut is from £42,000 to £32,000. As she says, "We are only funded at a very modest level by West Berkshire County Council and our turnover is around £3 million. We're grateful that they have continued to support us at all at such a difficult time. The result for the Corn Exchange is much worse as West Berkshire is their main funder."

A statement issued by the Corn Exchange Trust confirms that cuts would have a major impact. At the moment Council funding stands at £378,000; the proposed cut is to reduce funding by £170,000 – almost halving it. The announced consultation period ends on 13 December and incorporates an online theatres survey.

Corn Exchange director Katy Griffiths says: "We recognise that, along with other vital services, the Corn Exchange will need to share in the funding cuts. However, the reduction of almost 50 per cent of our funding would put at risk our ability to deliver for the arts locally.

"Last year over 108,000 people came to our performances and events … our annual pantomime, our incredibly popular free outdoor performances, the chance for local people to perform in a professional theatres or the work which we do with schools and young people to inspire their interest and enthusiasm for the arts.

"During the consultation period we will be making sure that decision makers at the Council understand the far-reaching and unintended consequences that a cut this substantial would have for the local community".