THE future of Thurrock's Thameside Theatre – and the remainder of the Thameside complex in Grays in which it is housed is shrouded in doubt.

For many weeks rumours and concern have reached Thurrock Nub News that the council wants to close the theatre – and dispose of the rest of the complex.

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic the council had already made the decision to close the centre's café, which was sub-let and made a profit for its operator. Much of the equipment has been transferred to the Grays Lightship cafe.

Businesses and organisations base within the complex have contacted Nub News to tell us they have had issues obtaining renewal of leases and they fear the council wants them out.

Music and theatre groups that use the complex have also raised concerns, while there has been little or no information about the council's thoughts on the premises coming out of Covid.

For many weeks Thurrock Nub News has been pressing the council to give out a statement about the complex, culminating in this request which has finally been answered: "For more than two months the council has not responded to my questions. There is now further concern about the Thameside.

"Here is a simple question. Are there plans to close any parts of the Thameside complex, including the theatre?"

We received a far from simple answer which gives no significant insight into the future of the Thameside.

A council spokesperson apologised for the delay in answering and said: "The Thameside Complex is currently open to allow residents and staff access to a number of services in line with COVID guidance and the council's approach to all public buildings at this time.

"The library is open and the registrars service is also operating within the parameters of the current national COVID guidance.

"Over the past few weeks the theatre has undertaken a programme of trial events to test theatre operations and equipment including activity to reach new audiences and exploring new ways of providing cultural services with local communities.

"Museum staff and volunteers have limited access to the museum to maintain the collections.

"No decision has been made to close the Thameside Complex, however with the Registrars service moving to the new civic office, the council is considering all options on how to better deliver services as part of its ongoing regeneration of Grays."

In marked contrast to the position in Thurrock, Basildon's new Conservative administration has recently expressed its commitment for its local theatre, The Towngate.

Council leader Cllr Andrew Baggott has given a ringing endorsement of the St Martin's Square-based theatre that has recently been used as a Covid-19 vaccination centre for Basildon residents, saying: "He said: "I wholeheartedly support the Towngate Theatre and recognise the huge value it brings to the community.

"In recent times it has been used as a Covid-19 test and vaccination centre but as we move out of the pandemic I am excited to see it return as a hub for arts in the heart of the town.

"It provides an exciting programme of drama, musicals, comedy, gigs and children's theatre that builds to fever pitch for Basildon's famous panto season at Christmas time.

"It will also play a vital role in the future of Basildon town centre."