Crisis-hit theatre will remain open

Community hand-over talks

Clubs and groups will still be able to use the crisis-hit Regal Theatre in Bathgate and the building will remain open.

The pledge was made after Regal Community Theatre Bathgate Limited (RCTBL) went into voluntary liquidation forcing the cancellation of all shows booked after August 31.

The board leases the art deco theatre from West Lothian Council and talks are now underway to hand it back.

Liquidators KPMG are dealing with the handover, which could be wrapped up as soon as the end of this week.

A council spokesperson said it was expected the theatre will remain open in the meantime and in the future for local clubs and groups to let and those affected by cancellations should already have been informed.

It is hoped the Regal Performance Academy will also continue as will Regal Radio and the monthly film club.

An employment fair organised by Fiona Hyslop tomorrow (Friday) will also go ahead.

A West Lothian Council spokesperson said: “We will work with RCTBL, to ensure an orderly handover of the Regal back to the council and ensure that community lets can be maintained.

“Given developments, the council has agreed that a consultation will be carried out with the local community and user groups to search for a viable community use for the property.”

RCTBL chairman Ronnie Barnes added: “We would like to thank everyone who has worked hard in the last few years to try and keep the Regal going, especially our committed, hard- working staff, dedicated volunteers and loyal members of the public.

“Thanks must also go to West Lothian Council for their continued financial support and ongoing advice that has allowed us to continue trading thus far.

“We hope a sustainable, positive future can be found for the Regal, to ensure that such a distinctive building can continue to play an important role in community life in Bathgate.”