AN alternative company is being sought to manage the Beck Theatre in Hayes after a breakdown in negotiations between Hillingdon Council and Trafalgar Theatres.

Hillingdon’s negotiating team felt they were close to a deal with Trafalgar until the saga took a new twist last night (10).

They were seeking to agree a three-year contract with Trafalgar to continue running the Beck without the council making an annual payment to the company.

Talks had continued despite Trafalgar's announcement on September 15 to terminate its management of the theatre from January 13 next year.  

A Hillingdon spokesperson said: “While Trafalgar publicly accepted the ending of the annual payment, it also sought compensatory terms beyond the council's offer of the lease of the Beck on a peppercorn rent, with the council continuing to be responsible for essential repairs and maintenance.  

“Last Friday, terms were discussed that seemed mutually agreeable to ensure the continuation of the Beck's operation for a further three and a half years, while also discussing longer-term investment aspirations for a new theatre.

“However, late on Tuesday evening (8), Trafalgar changed its demands and the deal has subsequently fallen through.”  

According to the council, Trafalgar now wants a subsidy in addition to rent-free use of the Beck, which had already been agreed.

The spokesperson added: “It was also seeking the ability to walk away from a three-year deal, with rolling break clauses, despite originally wanting more certainty of continued operation.

“Fundamentally, this would not have ensured any long-term stability for the running of the theatre, which is the council's main priority.”

Cllr Ian Edwards, leader of Hillingdon Council, added: "While we know this will be hugely disappointing for residents and supporters of the Beck, the council cannot be held to a position which continually moves further away from the demands Trafalgar originally negotiated.  

"I can assure residents that council officers and elected councillors worked tirelessly to reach an agreement with Trafalgar, doing everything reasonably possible to keep the theatre operating and open.”