Wesley still closed

Wesley Performing Arts Centre in Horsham will remain closed until further notice based on a fire-safety audit of the building.

Horsham Rural City Council made the announcement at the request of the venue’s operating committee.

The committee, which gave permission for the council’s building surveyor to undertake a fire-safety audit of the building, has now met with the council to discuss the Fire Safety and Essential Safety Measures Audit Report.

Council community services director Kevin O’brien said the council was working closely with the committee to complete all the necessary steps.

“There are a number of issues to work through and we will ensure the committee is fully informed so that it can make the necessary decisions,” he said.

Committee president Merryn Eagle said safety would continue to be the group’s number-one priority.

“These are complex and difficult issues for a volunteer organisation and we are working closely with the council to determine the next steps,” she said.

“We gave the council permission to carry out the audit.

“We need to ensure that Wesley meets all the necessary safety standards and is safe for the community.

“We thank the community for its understanding at this time.”

Mr O’brien said the council would continue to provide regular updates on the issue.