Council takes on Aquarius

The Aquarius ballroom in Hednesford is back in the hands of Cannock Chase Council after the company running it was declared insolvent.

Council bosses took back possession of the ballroom, on Victoria Street, from Giraffe Leisure on Monday. The firm was declared insolvent last week.

The Express & Star has discovered the company owes Cannock Chase Council more than £14,800 in unpaid business rates and other bills.

The ballroom's future has been in doubt for months after it was closed and bosses at Giraffe Leisure could not be contacted.

It was run by Ron and Lynn Bridgewater, from Station Road, Hednesford, but they were unavailable for comment today.

The Aquarius, much-loved by dancers across the Midlands, re-opened in March 2007 when Giraffe Leisure took on the lease until the start of a regeneration scheme in the town.

Under the plans the ballroom will be demolished and replaced.

Earlier this year the Bridgewaters approached Cannock Chase Council for rate relief. The authority turned down the couple's request for a 100 per cent cut, but did agree to slash rates by 40 per cent.

Head of regeneration at the council Bob Phillips said: "I can confirm the council has now taken back possession of the Aquarius Ballroom. We became aware that Giraffe Leisure had been declared insolvent at the end of last week and because there was a suspicion of damage being caused in the premises from running water the council took it back. If anyone is aware of people who have an interest in running the Aquarius it would be helpful to let the council know."

Dancer Jean Kennedy said: "People used to come for miles around to have a night at the Aquarius. It's very sad."