Arun District Council Supports Further Funding For Alexandra Theatre

Friday, 8 November 2024 11:46

By Dominic Kureen @WriteOnDom

Arun District Councillors have voted to allocate further funds to support the delivery of the Alexandra Theatre project in Bognor Regis.

At a meeting of the Full Council on Wednesday (6 November) a recommendation from the Policy and Finance Committee on 24 October 2024 to provide additional financial support to enable the delivery of the rejuvenation of the popular theatre in Bognor Regis was debated by councillors across the chamber.

The recommendation requests an additional £3 million to be added to the project budget and includes this in the capital programme. This comprises £1 million confirmed spend and the remainder as a contingency fund.

To date £12.19 million from central government and £3million from the capital programme has been in the pot to fund the project but since that time, inflationary cost pressures in the construction industry have continued to rise which has resulted in an industry-wide cost increase in delivering projects, as well as a number of long-established contractors ceasing to trade.

As a result, this has impacted on market conditions and this work programme.

The Alexandra Theatre work is progressing well with Neilcott Construction as appointed contractor currently implementing site set-up and early works. Updates are posted on the council website news area at the bottom of the home page and on our social media channels.

Cllr Martin Lury, Leader of the Council said:

“It is great to see the work on the theatre project continuing to gather pace and all parties involved are committed to and working hard to deliver this project.

"I believe this exciting venue will enhance Bognor Regis and provide a valued and vital facility for the community and visitors to enjoy.”

Following debate, the vote was recorded with 41 councillors voting for the additional funding, one against and seven abstentions.