Mid Sussex District Council considers evidence gathered on the options for securing a sustainable cultural anchor tenant on the Clair Hall site

PR 2468/MJ/JAE - 04/10/2022

BOP, Mid Sussex District Council’s (MSDC) specialist cultural and creative advisors, completed their evidence-based report to help inform the Cabinet considerations on securing a modern fit for purpose cultural and community venue on the site.

Councillor Jonathan Ash-Edwards, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council said:

“The Council is now in possession of BOP’s final report which we have been considering carefully. The report contains several facts that will not come as a surprise to many. Chief amongst these is that rising inflation costs make this a particularly challenging economic climate for projects of this nature and mean it may be difficult for interested parties to raise the necessary funds.    

“That is why we are taking an evidence-based approach informed by independent experts.

“Our advisors are “cautiously optimistic” as there are some positive findings from their investigations, and from our agreed success criteria. These emphasise that flexibility of space and variety of use is the key to the future viability of the site”.

“The Cabinet will consider how to progress this work further, including seeking expert help to harness the creativity of the sector. This could include inviting potential interested parties to put forward ideas that can deliver investment on the site.”

Our goal is to secure a cultural anchor tenant who can deliver a cultural and leisure offer for the whole of the mid Sussex community now and in the future, in a modern fit for purpose venue on the Clair Hall site”.

The reports will be discussed at a meeting of the Cabinet on 17th October.

Both reports will shortly be publicly available and can be downloaded from the engagement hub site via www.engagement.midsussex.gov.uk/clair-hall.

The final cabinet report summarises the feedback from sector specialists and professionals and proposes a way forward based on the recommendations of the Council’s lead advisors, BOP.

ENDS