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We issued a press release about the progress achieved so far by the new contractor at the Spa Pavilion: Welcome to Ipswich. The Boundary Committee proposal seems to have been well received in the Colneis Peninsular as have recent comments made by IBC councillors. We look forward to a happy association.
In a week which sees a superb performance, Where Soldiers Sleep, by a young local company at Landguard Fort (on for 2 more weeks) and the announcement of a plan to convert a school hall at Deben High into a theatre it's time to look at the management of the Spa Pavilion.
It's two years since the new contract was awarded. An enthusiastic local group of media professionals were prevented from tendering for this lucrative contract, which has netted over half million pounds in two years, and we are critical of the services now provided.
There's been very little improvement. Tribute bands dominate the schedule, and the theatre remains dark for majority of the time. The restaurant boasts the finest sea view in Felixstowe yet remains closed most evenings, and the menu available is hardly stimulating. Local amateur groups provide the real entertainment but must pay a high price to the contractor to do so. They are even charged for printing tickets.
The local group had intended to add a fly tower to enable West End shows to perform. They planned to divide the auditorium to create a studio for dance, fringe performance, conferences and meetings. They wanted to create access to the beach from the theatre to provide a cafe/bar. They planned to keep the building in use for most of the day. The Council refused to consider their application.
This contract has another eight years to run. It is not using the theatre to its best advantage. Money is drained out of the town as the contractor admits that most of its staff are employed in London. How does this contract help this town, this county?
There's talent, enthusiasm and expertise in this area. It is stifled by a lack of vision. Felixstowe has no public space for performance or for meetings, and so it lacks a heart, a centre, a place we can call our own.
How can we create a sense of community and encourage our young people. We need to 'review the situation'.
We welcome your opinions as we are planning a programme about arts and drama facilities in Felixstowe.
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Felixstowe 
