Theater to be sold after failed rescue attempts

A theatre in Leicestershire is set to be sold after three separate attempts to save it were found to be impractical. Melton Theatre, located on the former SMB College campus on Asfordby Road, became part of Loughborough College earlier this year following a merger.

The Loughborough College Group, which now manages the colleges, confirmed on Friday that it is seeking potential buyers for the theatre and the surrounding property. Local theatre supporters have previously expressed that losing the venue would be "a huge loss" for the community.

The college group explained that it inherited significant financial obligations from SMB College Group during the merger, which influenced the decision to sell. While acknowledging that the theatres future is now uncertain, the group mentioned plans to explore the creation of a cultural hub at The Stockyard in collaboration with Melton Borough Council.

Any income generated from the sale would be reinvested into the colleges. Corrie Harris, CEO of Loughborough College Group, stated: "As a public sector organisation, we are obliged to ensure the best use of resources. At the same time, we hope the redevelopment of this site will offer meaningful benefits to the community."

Author: Ethan Caldwell