The fate of the Broadstairs Memorial Hall and Pottery has been decided, and it's a story that will delight the town's residents. After months of uncertainty, the iconic Sarah Thorne Theatre, a beloved entertainment venue, has found a new owner in Michael Wheatley-Ward, the founder of the theatre itself. But the journey to this point was not without its challenges and drama.
The theatre, located on Fordoun Road, was up for auction, with Kent County Council (KCC) putting it on the market due to a lack of viable community offers. The building, once a thriving cultural hub, was declared surplus to KCC's needs and placed on the disposal list in 2024. The auction, held by Clive Emson, attracted only one bid, which fell significantly short of the £350,000 asking price.
However, the story took an unexpected turn after the auction. County Councillor John Finch revealed that a deal was struck behind the scenes, ensuring the theatre's survival. Mr. Finch, who had been working tirelessly to prevent the loss of this cherished venue, shared the exciting news that Michael Wheatley-Ward was the successful purchaser.
The road to this outcome was not without its hurdles. Mr. Finch admitted that the process was filled with moments of hope and frustration, requiring constant behind-the-scenes efforts. The lack of viable fundraising attempts and the council's statutory duties added to the complexity. As the auction neared, it became clear that alternative strategies were necessary.
Michael Wheatley-Ward's determination to protect the theatre was evident, as he had already secured a five-year lease and made previous purchase offers. When the auction failed to attract serious bids, last-minute negotiations with the auctioneers paved the way for his long-held ambition to become the freeholder.
The town of Broadstairs can now breathe a sigh of relief, as the theatre's future is secured. This outcome is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of those who fought to preserve the Sarah Thorne Theatre. With its new owner, the theatre is poised to continue its legacy, bringing joy and entertainment to the community for years to come.
The residents of Broadstairs can look forward to a bright future for their beloved theatre, and it's a heartwarming tale that showcases the power of perseverance and community support.
