Priestley board urged to give rescue bid more time

The Little Germany theatre ceased trading on January 20 after the Priestley Centre for the Arts Ltd - a registered charity - struggled to find the £50,000 it owes creditors.

Earlier this year six out of seven board members agreed that the limited company which runs the theatre should go into voluntary liquidation.

The board has called an extraordinary general meeting on Tuesday where it was due to recommend that the 430 theatre members agree to voluntary liquidation, leading to the disposal of the company's assets which include the theatre building.

But chairman of the board Glenn Boldy said members would now be asked for an adjournment so the board can pursue rescue plans. He said following a meeting of Bradford Council's regeneration and culture scrutiny committee on Tuesday several offers of help had come forward.

At the meeting the committee decided to urge the Council's executive to explore all possible avenues of funding to stop the closure of the centre.

The centre management was also urged to explore a better range of users and better access for people with disabilities.

"Out of the negatives have come positives," said Mr Boldy.

"We have received some very interesting propositions.

"We have been offered help with business and administration which will take our vision plan forward.

"At next week's EGM we will be updating the members on the situation and asking them to adjourn any decision on voluntary liquidation so we can explore the offers of help we have been given, and the various rescue packages that are being drawn up.

"I am hopeful there will be a way forward.

"None of the members want the theatre to close for good and we are confident that we can put these plans into action. We just need more time."

The extraordinary general meeting, which is for Priestley Centre members only, will take place at the theatre building on Tuesday at 10.30am