Search begins for new operator to run arts venue

A proposed new theatre for west London aimed at attracting some of the best shows in the UK has come a step closer to opening.

After a decade in the planning of the new Hounslow Arts Centre, the local council is to begin looking for the "the right operator" to run the new venue near Brentford High Street.

Plans were previously approved for the theatre, to replace the now closed Watermans Arts Centre, along with about 100 new homes on the development.

The firm chosen to run it will be expected to attract "world-class" productions and audiences from across London, Hounslow council said.

Many local people had expected Watermans Arts Centre's previous operator, the Hounslow Arts Trust, to run the new venue, which is to be built on the site of a former police station on Half Acre.

However, a firm will be chosen via an open tendering process, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

It is understood that initially, the centre was to include a cinema, but as Everyman has since opened one nearby, a new live theatre space is now the priority.

Cabinet member for culture, Salman Shaheen, said: "I want that to be a world-class arts and culture centre. One that serves our residents, and also brings people in from far and wide, from across London and beyond to see the very best acts.

"That is why we are launching an open process to find the right operator – one that shares our aims, will deliver a broad and ambitious programme, and demonstrates it can be financially sustainable."

The Watermans closed in April 2024 after Hounslow Arts Trust announced that it was no longer financially viable to keep it open.

The tendering process will follow further work to test the local market and analyse local needs.

The council has also reached a provisional agreement with a housing provider for the new homes which will also be built on the same site.

Work is expected to begin on the new venue between the spring and summer of 2025.

At this stage it is unclear when the centre and homes will open to the public, however the hope is the construction will be swift.

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