Save East Lane Theatre, Wembley, from destruction. Don't delay - sign the petition today.

 

East Lane Theatre in Wembley faced with closure after a  proposed giganic rent increase by Brent Council has launched a petition:

 

We the undersigned petition the council to reconsider the rent increase of circa 5000% on the current rent of £1,500 per annum on our small, volunteer run theatre. An affordable rent for East Lane Theatre Company (ELTC), a valuable community asset, would ensure it can continue to serve the community of Brent.

 

East Lane Theatre Club (ELTC) has been in residence at the Vale Farm Tennis Pavilion since the early 1960s. ELTC have developed a theatre on the site and maintain & insure the buildings with no council funding. Although recognising the obligations on ELTC under the current lease to maintain the site on which the theatre is located, it is the theatre rather than the Council which has ensured the site remains in good order for many years.

 

ELTC were in negotiation over our lease renewal with Brent prior to their new Property Strategy being published with the Strategy having subsequently led to what the Club now feels is an unjustifiable high increase in their rental charge.

 

We the undersigned feel that Brent’s new Property Strategy should therefore make allowance for buildings that have a specific role and are used by the community also, in the case of ELTC, recognising the link to Brent’s Cultural Strategy.

 

The Club provides theatre at an affordable price, it supports its members’ wellbeing and provides a safe place to explore new skills. It entertains and supports residents unable to afford West End ticket prices or travel to the West End, with other similar local theatres in Greater London and other areas supported by their Councils.

 

We urge the Council to reconsider the way in which the Property Strategy has been applied to ELTC in order to avoid the theatre being destroyed by a rent hike it just cannot afford.

 

This ePetition runs from 09/02/2025 to 11/05/2025.

 

SIGN HERE

 

 

Musical Theatre CODA perform at East Lane Theatre, Sudbury, on Saturday March 22nd and pledge support for the theatre faced with Brent Council's huge rent increase

 

Readers will know that the East Lane Theatre group are fighting for survival following proposals by Brent Council for a huge increase in rent. CODA, who are putting on a show at  the theatre on March 22nd, told Wembley Matters:

If the theatre is forced to close its doors it would be a devastating loss not only for our production but for the entire local community that relies on the space for creative expression and connection.

At CODA, we remain deeply committed to supporting local community theatres, and we believe that spaces like East Lane Theatre are essential for nurturing local talent and enriching the cultural landscape. We are hopeful that with the support of the community, we can ensure this vital venue remains open.

 

DETAILS

Award-winning musical theatre duo CODA are set to bring their critically acclaimed UK touring production, Songs From Stage and Screen, to East Lane Theatre on 22.03.25. This spectacular show promises to be a night of unforgettable performances, featuring iconic songs from some of the greatest musicals of all time, including Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, Grease, My Fair Lady, Little Shop of Horrors, and many more.

CODA, comprised of soprano Gemma Ashley and baritone Mark ‘#ManInTheHat’ James, have captivated audiences nationwide with their dynamic vocals and charismatic stage presence. The pair met on the set of the BBC’s prime-time show All Together Now, where their shared passion for musical theatre sparked a powerful creative partnership.

“Songs From Stage and Screen is a celebration of the music that has defined the world of musical theatre and film,” said Mark James. “We’re thrilled to bring this show to Sudbury and share our love for these timeless classics with new audiences.”

Gemma added, “There’s something truly magical about performing these songs live on stage. It’s an honor to bring these stories to life and connect with audiences through the power of music.” She continued, “Our performance allows audience members to sing along, dance, and get involved if they wish—creating an interactive and joyful experience for everyone.”

As part of their UK tour, CODA is committed to supporting local independent theatres, many of which are often run by dedicated volunteers. “These theatres are the unsung heroes of the theatre world,” Gemma said. “They are places where many dreams begin, new careers are encouraged, and communities come together. Supporting these venues is our way of giving back to the very foundation of live performance.”

Songs From Stage and Screen is not just a show; it’s a journey through the history of musical theatre and cinema, brought to life by two of the most engaging voices in the business. With a setlist that spans decades and genres, the show is a must-see for fans of all ages.

Tickets for the East Lane Theatre performance on 22.03.25 are available now and can be purchased at www.muscialcoda.com or using this link
https://rb.gy/kdq9s5

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of CODA live in concert.

 

LETTER: Transparency needed on Peppercorn Rents vs Market Rents for Brent Council properties

 Dear Editor,

Following widespread public interest and concern, including on Wembley Matters, regarding the impact of Brent Council's Strategy Review on the voluntary and community sector, I have written (below) to the  appropriate council officer:

I am writing in my capacity as a Councillor concerned about the potentially damaging impact of the new Property Strategy and it’s implementation on the Brent voluntary sector.

The Property Strategy agreed by Cabinet last week indicates that expired rents will be charged based on market values and that Section 25 Notices will be issued as part of the process to achieve this.

As you know your officers started issuing Section 25 Notices to a number of community organisations in Brent and you officers suggested a completely off the wall (some people may say off their heads) figures.

In the case of the East Lane Theatre Club in my Sudbury Ward a new rent of £75,000 Per year has been suggested.

I know of other organisations in Sudbury subject to the same Property Unit approach.

What assurance can you give that this approach will be applied consistently and that community organisations will be treated fairly and equally.

The Leader of the Council has suggested that “ELTC has been in the fortunate position of being able to have space since 1992 for the sun of £1,500 ….and I can assure you that there are many organisations past and present that would love to have been in that position of having had that space”.

He than also claims that “we must start at open market rents”.

He is clearly ignorant of the facts or has not bothered to find out or has not been briefed properly. As you know there a number of organisations in Brent - many occupying larger premises and since before 1992 - that do not pay any rent for properties which belong to Brent Council and for which the Council is the landlord.

As you know one of these properties is The Kiln Theatre (formerly Tricycle Theatre) with a much larger Theatre building of which Brent Council is the freeholder the rent for which is £1 peppercorn.

You have and should be able to publish the full list of all the Brent Council owned buildings where £1 or nominal rent is paid.

Is it the intention of the Corporate Property Policy to review all these subsidised rents too so as to put all  community organisations on the same basis or is it the intention to penalise some with a Market Rent while favouring others with no rent at all?

You will appreciate that will all look very odd to any independent observer who may question the fairness of an approach the aim of which seems to be to deprive long standing organisations of their premises while others continue to receive favoured treatment. 

Perhaps if the Cabinet were informed of this strange situation they may have asked some questions and perhaps even made a different decision.

Because of the public interest in this matter I am publishing this email and will also publish your response.

 

Cllr Paul Lorber

Pinter Double Bill tickets still available for East Lane Theatre

 

 

 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK - TICKETS £14