Labour supports a private operator for Ipswich Film Theatre (Ipswich Liberal Democrats)

Ipswich Liberal Democrats <info@ipswichlibdems.org.uk>

Labour supports a private operator for Ipswich Film Theatre

August 14, 2007 12:57 PM

Ipswich Corn Exchange - to be shut by Labour

In June Ipswich Labour spent much time decrying the appointment of a private operator for the Film Theatre. A decision that has already led to the refurbishment of the Theatre, increased screenings and a potential saving of £80,000 per year for the Council Tax payer. This decision was described as 'privatisation of the Film Theatre' by Labour - misunderstanding of course that the theatre remains in Borough hands and the operating contract has been won by a private operator who specialises in running small independent cinemas.

It seems in a stunning U-Turn Ipswich Labour has now relented claiming they were "not attacking the decision to privatise the Film theatre but the way the process was dealt with". This process was subsequently investigated and the approach vindicated.

Labours stance on the Film Theatre is frankly breathtaking. As recently as 2004 they wanted to shut the whole Corn Exchange complex with no plans to re-open the Film Theatre. Now it seems their position shifts again inside a month.

It is early days for the new operator and of course we must ensure that all of the contractual promises are upheld. What the Film Theatre needs at this stage however is consistent and sincere support not Labours brand of 'concern'.