Decision
Analysis
outcome: The decision was made to conduct a study to understand the current commercial entertainment market and determine if the current venue can meet market demand or if a new build is required.
summary: The future of Preston Guild Hall and the need for a commercial entertainment offer in the city is at stake in this decision.
topline: The Cabinet Member for Resources has decided to conduct a study to determine the future of Preston Guild Hall and its role in the city's entertainment market.
reason_contentious: This issue may be contentious as it involves the potential closure or redevelopment of a significant cultural venue in the city, which could impact local stakeholders and the cultural landscape of Preston.
affected_stakeholders: ["Council", "Residents of Preston", "Entertainment industry stakeholders"]
contentiousness_score: 6
political_party_relevance: There are no explicit mentions of political parties or political influence on the decision.
URL: https://preston.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1320
Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Resources
Outcome:
Is Key Decision?: No
Is Callable In?: Yes
Purpose: Preston Guild Hall has been largely closed since 2019 and the need for a commercial entertainment offer in the city is widely recognised. However, in the first instance the Council needs to understand the current commercial entertainment market and what type of venue Preston can sustain. This study will help guide Members’ decision making and consider if the current venue can meet the market demand or if an alternative new build is required and what opportunities this presents.
Content: Preston Guild Hall has been largely closed since 2019 and the need for a commercial entertainment offer in the city is widely recognised. However, in the first instance the Council needs to understand the current commercial entertainment market and what type of venue Preston can sustain. This study will help guide Members’ decision making and consider if the current venue can meet the market demand or if an alternative new build is required and what opportunities this presents. Decision Taken - That the Cabinet Member for Resources approved the decision at 2.1 of the report. Reasons for Decision –To enable the Council to understand the future commercial entertainment market in the city centre and whether or not the Guild Hall can fulfil market requirements; and Alternative Options Considered and Rejected – Do nothing. This option has been rejected because it would result in the status quo being maintained regarding the Guild Hall, which is not financially sustainable for the Council and would not contribute to the continued regeneration interventions in the city centre.
Date of Decision: July 17, 2025