PUBLIC talks on the future of the Carlton Theatre, Teignmouth, will not be held until after the local elections in May. Leader of Teignbridge Council, Cllr Alan Connett, said that the public consultation will be very much part of the process of deciding the best outcome for the building and its tenants, amateur dramatic group the Teignmouth Players. Discussions and draft plans will include talks with Hugh Bromage, the owner of the Riviera cinema, as an alternative venue for the Teignmouth Players and other users of the Carlton Theatre. It means a waiting game for the Teignmouth Players, which had to postpone its biggest show of the year, its Christmas pantomime. It is yet to have any firm indication of the future for the group. Teignbridge Council chief executive Nicola Bulbeck and Cllr Connett met with the Players on Monday. The Players presented plans for a second ceiling to meet health and safety concerns that brought down the curtain on the venue in December. It is expecting to find out in the next few weeks whether the building can be used on a temporary basis. Chairman Roger Smith said he is still hoping that the Teignmouth Drama Festival can be held in March and the April production of Shock will take place at the theatre. But he admitted 'it's day by day'. 'It is frustrating because we have actors chomping at the bit, wanting to get on and act,' he said. Talks were also held last week between Mr Bromage and Teignmouth town councillors about the facilities on offer over the road. Mr Smith said he welcomed open debate with the council. A meeting with Teignbridge Council was something that had been needed for a while and it was good to get both sides talking. 'We put forward proposals which would allow the theatre to re-open and we are awaiting Teignbridge Council's response on that. But we are optimistic,' he said, Long term, Mr Smith said that the Riviera Cinema was a possibility: 'We are looking at all opportunities. We accept that the Carlton Theatre is not what it used to be so we do need to look forward,' he said. Some 1,500 signatures to save live theatre in Teignmouth were collected in three hours on Saturday. Players, drama groups and Teignmouth mayor Cllr Geoff Bladon were rallying support. 'It shows the strength of feeling for the theatre and many people were telling us of their happy memories in times gone by. It was very nice to hear,' he said. Cllr Alan Connett said that Monday's meeting was positive. 'Live theatre in Teignmouth has a special regard and we all fully support its continuation. Additionally, we recognise the importance of finding a solution that answers everyone's needs, and Monday's meeting with the Teignmouth Players was very constructive. 'It was agreed that further work and exploration should be undertaken together with the owner of the Riviera Cinema, and that a draft plan be developed which addresses key needs, concerns and potential solutions. 'The public consultation on the Carlton Theatre will play a crucial part in this process and will start as soon as practically possible following the May elections,' he said.
