THEATRE groups, dance troupes and community organisations are demanding assurances that a council-run arts venue in Barrow will not be transferred to private hands.

Fears have been raised over the future of The Forum, which along with Park Leisure Centre, has been earmarked for ‘outsourcing’ in Barrow Borough Council’s budget proposals.

Campaigners believe the move, which is projected to save the cash-strapped local authority £470,000, means local groups could be priced out of using the studios, meeting rooms and stage and auditorium, posing a threat to the long-standing role it has played in nurturing talent in the borough.

Under the existing system, venue hire is subsidised, providing a substantial discount for the local amateur theatre societies, musicians, dance troupes and performers who frequently stage shows there.

Community organisations and charities are also regular users of the building, including Barrow and Furness Pensioners’ Association. It also provides Silverscreen, regular discounted film showings enjoyed by residents.

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Margie Arts, secretary of BAFPA, said: “Any threat to the future of The Forum would be very bad for pensioners. A lot of our members are very concerned and we plan to set up a petition. There is a danger it could be handed to a private company. That would be wrong – it is a public facility and should stay that way.”

John Woodcock, MP for Barrow and Furness, blamed government cuts for forcing local authorities to make tough decisions.

“I will be speaking with local Labour councillors to make sure that they are working with Forum users, staff and council officers to ensure that all the options for the future of the venue are investigated fully in order to protect the venue as a community asset,” he said.

Sylvia Rees, former chairwoman of Walney Junior Amateur Operatic Society, said: “Local groups get a big concession. If Walney would have had to pay the full amount – or anywhere near – it would have been very restrictive. I doubt a lot would be able to afford it."

Performer and promoter Denis Horan, one half of boyband Mystical Experience, said: “Even if outsourced to an independent management company I would hope for subsidies put in place for local hire.

“The Forum should be run by the council on behalf of the community that pays for it."

Barrow town hall’s draft proposal fails to go into any specific detail of what ‘outsourcing’ means for the venue’s future, and whether it could continue to provide a lifeline for members of the community as part of any new arrangement.

Phil Huck, chief executive of Barrow Borough Council, said: “The annual cash subsidy to operate The Forum is £613,000 in 2016/17 and the council can no longer afford this.

“In order to save £2.37m, the council has developed a budget strategy which has looked at all areas of expenditure and part of this is to outsource The Forum from April 2018. Under this the council will still own the building but the services would be delivered by an external provider under a contract.

“We have not yet drawn up the specification for the service that would be provided but it is probable that part of the selection process will involve any potential providers being asked to explain how they will continue to provide a venue for local groups.”