News item published on 7 December 2023
A world-record breaking theatre in Great Malvern is in need of a new owner to help bring it back to its former glory.
Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) is inviting expressions of interest to purchase Edith Walk Theatre, better known as the Theatre of Small Convenience.
The unique theatre which seats 12 people, entered the Guinness Book of World Records in 2002 as the world’s smallest commercial theatre.
The council is encouraging individuals and organisations that can demonstrate they are able to provide a fully funded and sustainable use for the property to apply.
The theatre has been closed since 2017 after the founder Dennis Neale retired and it was leased to Warwickshire College Group until 2022.
It suffered some fire damage in 2021 but it has been cleaned up and made safe, it now remains under the ownership of MHDC.
Cllr John Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Resources at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to own a piece of history. Not only is it a unique building in Great Malvern, but it is also world-record breaking! It is essential that the new owner has a comprehensive business plan for the theatre and understands the importance of sustaining the site. Please send in an application if you are interested”.
Expressions should be returned no later than 12pm on 22 January 2024.
Visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/consultations for more information on how to make an application.
