Save The Cochrane Theatre
The Cochrane Theatre, as the building is popularly known, was closed for public performances in September 2011. In October 2010 it was purchased by developer Mr. Raj Mathura of Grange Hotels as part of a proposed demolition and development on the site of the University of the Arts London. In February 2011 The Theatres Trust applied unsuccessfully to the English Heritage for the Cochrane Theatre to be listed in light of the theatre’s unique location in Central London and its prominence in the capital’s theatre land. Subsequently, in a bid by director, Peter Schaufuss, to save the theatre, a formal financial offer was forwarded to Mr Mathura in October 2011, which met with no response. An architect prepared feasibility study, clearly illustrating how the theatre can be preserved and maintained within a future development, to the site´s advantage, has been forwarded to Mr. Mathura. A further appeal was forwarded to Mr. Mathura to open the theatre for public performances, then in April 2012 many of the concerned public submitted in writing their objections to the demolition to the Borough of Camden. Not a word has been heard from Mr Mathura nor any other Grange Hotels executives. There can be only one explanation for this discourteous attitude taken both by Mr Mathura and Grange Hotels, totally disregarding the extreme concern of local residents, to demolish one of the most accessible and people friendly iconic theatres in London.It is plain for all to see at the Cochrane Theatre today. The building has now been boarded up ready for demolition !!!!! PLEASE ACT NOW BEFORE ITS TOO LATE! Give your support by signing our petition today “ SAVE THE COCHRANE THEATRE “ A historic London landmark where the likes of Simon Callow, John Hurt, Tara FitzGerald and Colin Firth honed their craft. The Cochrane theatre is on The Theatres Trust list as one of the ” Top Theatre Buildings At Risk (TBAR) ” and the petition is supported by, The Sir Frederick Ashton Rights Holders Trust and The Ralph and Meriel Richardson Foundation.
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