Bright future for Victoria Theatre with takeover

North Shore City Council has approved a lease that will see Victoria Theatre Trust take over the building to develop a cinema and performing arts space.

It will be responsible for the management, restoration, maintenance and operation of the building.

The 33-year lease is subject to confirmation by the Auckland Transition Agency.

Council strategy and finance committee chairman Grant Gillon says this is a positive move because the theatre has the potential to be an important arts and cultural facility.

Victoria Theatre has been owned by the council since August 2006, when it was bought with the intention of leasing it to a third party.

It was subsequently recognised by the NZ Historic Places Trust as a category one heritage building.

Council community services and parks committee chairman Tony Holman says its heritage status has made finding the right people to care for the building especially important.

"I think it is wonderful that the future of this building is now secured and that we have a group taking care of the building that is committed to restoring it to its former glory."

Victoria Theatre Trust Board chairman Paul Martin says the trust is pleased that the council has ratified the lease.

"The trust is excited about the opportunity that it has to deliver its vision for the theatre and to make a positive contribution to the community."

The council bought the theatre for $1.55 million.

A tender process began and the council started negotiations with Lighthouse Cinema.

But Lighthouse withdrew, citing the restrictions on the building.

The tendering process was reopened and the Victoria Theatre Trust was successful.

- © Fairfax NZ News