The Public to shut in November over running cost

Sandwell Council chiefs say the arts centre is too expensive to run, and is expected to agree plans to end its agreement with Sandwell Arts Trust which currently runs the venue in West Bromwich.

On Wednesday, the Cabinet of senior councillors is recommended not to take up the option of extending the council's current agreement with Sandwell Arts Trust, the organisation currently running The Public.

Sandwell Arts Trust was informed of this yesterday and is set to hand the building back to the council on 30 November.

Sandwell Council leader Councillor Darren Cooper said: "It's not been an easy decision to make. But the fact of the matter is the council can't continue to subsidise The Public.

"The overall cost to the council is currently about £30,000 a week. That's nearly £1.6 million a year. That money is council taxpayers' money.

"In the face of the cuts the council is facing from central government, this can't carry on.

"We rescued The Public after the project went into administration some years ago, setting up Sandwell Arts Trust to make sure the building was finished and to run activities there.

"The Arts Trust has done a great job and has contributed to the regeneration of West Bromwich.

Councillor Cooper added: "I know the building means a lot to many people – not just those who work there, but the people who enjoy the arts activities, the gigs, the café and the exhibitions. It has made a significant difference to many people's lives – including bringing work experience opportunities to West Bromwich and promoting the town.

"We have listened to people who've campaigned to keep The Public as an arts centre. And in the talks we are having, we are looking at keeping some arts provision there, as well as looking for alternative venues in West Bromwich for entertainment.

"And we are talking to businesses and groups that use the building to make sure their work and activities continue in the town centre.

"We are continuing our talks with Sandwell College about them taking over the building to use it as a sixth form and lifelong learning centre with some arts provision too. These negotiations continue."

Sandwell Arts Trust chief executive Paul Slater said: "We are very disappointed that financial circumstances have resulted in the council making this decision.

"I thank all our employees for their hard work and dedication over the last few years, and all our visitors and tenants for their support."

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