Plough Arts Centre is saved from closure thanks to emergency council cash

Two local councils have stepped in to save The Plough Arts Centre in Torrington from closure.

The theatre needed emergency funding of £60,000 after it struggled with post pandemic audience numbers and rising energy costs.

Torridge District Council (TDC) has come to the rescue with a grant of £45,000 and Great Torrington Town Council provided £15,000.

READ MORE: Plough Arts Centre issues urgent plea for emergency funding

TDC made the decision last week at a community and resources committee meeting where it heard how the Plough had been instrumental in the lives of young people by giving them an interest, a sense of community and confidence.

In 2024-25 more than 250 youth sessions were held at the venue, more than 50 drama and dance sessions for adults with disabilities, 273 live music/theatre events, 217 films, 20 free exhibitions and 54 workshops but the Plough was losing up to £7,000 each month.

When new chief executive Emma Marston joined in September 2024 she implemented a recovery plan to restructure the workforce, reduce hours and streamline operations which have reduced losses per month by 50 per cent.

Torridge councillors heard that emergency cash would keep the venue functioning while it continued with its plan.

External grants are being sought to improve the 100-year-old building and its energy efficiency.

The £45,000 from TDC will be paid in two instalments over the next two years.

READ MORE: ‘Last two months’ to save the Globe Hotel in Torrington

Torridge District Council’s lead member for culture and community engagement Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin said The Plough was starting to turn a corner, with ticket sales increasing and it had cultural, educational, economic and well-being benefits.

She said it deserved the council’s support.

It brings the amount of cash the council has granted to The Plough to £100,000 since 2020.

The community and resources committee agreed that The Plough should report back to the council twice a year in order that progress on the delivery of their recovery plan can be monitored.