Wyre Council issue major updates about future of Marine Hall and Thornton Little Theatre

Wyre Council has issued major updates for two of the borough’s key venues -  Marine Hall in Fleetwood and Thornton Little Theatre.

Marine Hall will remain under council management, following the conclusion of a procurement process to appoint an external operator.

The council said that while the strong level of interest received demonstrated Marine Hall’s appeal and potential, members were clear that the priority is to retain the venue within Wyre and focus on investing in its future.

Councillor Lynne Bowen, Leisure, Health and Community Engagement Portfolio Holder at Wyre Council, said: “The interest we received in Marine Hall was extremely encouraging and confirmed the value and potential of this much‑loved venue.

‘’However, we believe the right decision is to retain Marine Hall within Wyre and focus on investing in its future so it can continue to serve our residents, support the local economy and thrive in the long term.”

In response to public feedback calling for a seaside café, options are being explored to bring the Waterfront Bar and kitchen back into use as a daytime café on the promenade. Proposals also include the creation of a second community and performance space, helping to increase daytime use, broaden appeal and strengthen Marine Hall’s role as a key community asset.

Essential roof improvement works above the Waterfront Bar are scheduled to begin on 29 April and will affect the Waterfront Bar area only. Normal access to and from the venue will remain unaffected. The works are expected to take approximately six weeks to complete.

Wyre Council has also confirmed that Thornton Little Theatre is set to enter an exciting new chapter, with a new leaseholder bringing fresh energy, creativity and ambition to the much‑loved venue.

Claire and Ged Mills will be taking on the theatre and are preparing plans to re‑energise the space with a programme of live performance, community activity and creative opportunities.

Speaking ahead of the theatre’s anticipated return to use later this summer, Ged said: “This theatre has huge potential. I’m keen to start working with local performers, promoters and community organisations right away to shape an exciting and inclusive future programme.”

Wyre Council is currently finalising the legal arrangements, with activity planning already underway behind the scenes.

Councillor Lynne Bowen said: “This marks a positive step forward for the theatre. We’re delighted to be working with Claire and Ged as plans progress.”

 Councillor Lesley McKay, Resources Policy Holder at Wyre Council, added: “We’re looking forward to seeing the venue brought back into use and ensuring it can once again benefit the local community.”

Artists, promoters, organisations and community groups interested in using Thornton Little Theatre are invited to register their interest by contacting: info@thorntonlittletheatre.co.uk