Council considering best way of securing "strong future" for theatre with Waterside contract expiring in 2028
Buckinghamshire Council says it is considering the best way of securing “a strong future” for the county’s theatres, ahead of the Waterside’s contract expiring in 2028.
The comment comes as surveys identify an estimated £770,000 in building works at The Wycombe Swan theatre in High Wycombe, with the council’s contract to run the Swan expiring at the end of March 2029.
The report also estimates replacement costs across the Swan and Aylesbury Waterside Theatre at around £4.5 million over 20 years, with further technical work required to validate those estimates.
An accompanying risk assessment warns existing maintenance reserves are likely to be exhausted within one to two years, after which council capital funding would be needed.
The document does not specify how that warning is split between the two theatres.
The council proposes running both tendering processes together, allowing companies to bid for either venue or both. Each theatre would retain venue-specific arrangements under the proposals.
Waterside’s contract expires in February 2028.
Four operators responding to market engagement expressed interest in both venues and supported operating without a council management fee or grant.
However, operators voiced caution about taking on full building responsibilities where maintenance backlogs or major replacement costs could exist.
A decision was scheduled for October 14, however, the council’s online record still describes the proposals as “for determination” and “decision to be taken”, with no confirmed outcome shown.
In a statement earlier this month, cabinet member for culture and leisure Peter Brazier said: “Aylesbury Waterside Theatre and Wycombe Swan Theatre are important cultural venues for Buckinghamshire residents, providing entertainment, community activities and opportunities for people of all ages.
“We are considering the best way to secure a strong future for both venues, making sure they continue to deliver great experiences for residents while providing good value for money.”
The council owns the Wycombe Swan, which is operated by Trafalgar Entertainment.
Under the proposed arrangements, the arts programme grant paid to the operator would end, while the council would retain influence over programming, community access and educational activities.
However, the council wants a varied programme balancing commercial performance with residents’ needs and interests.
The papers reveal uncertainty over future building costs, with further assessments needed before responsibilities can be divided between the authority and future operators.
Building condition surveys completed in 2025 identified approximately £770,000 of capital investment requirements at the Swan over the next three years.