Fresh concerns have been raised over the future of Consett Empire Theatre after proposed cuts were described as the start of a "slow slide" towards closure.
It was revealed on Friday (September 25) that Durham County Council is considering closing the theatre's café and reviewing cinema screenings as part of a package of savings proposals.
Consett councillor Kathryn Rooney said residents were worried the proposed changes could lead to further reductions at the popular venue.
But despite the proposals being listed for public consultation, Reform UK councillor Karen Allison has insisted her party has "no plans" to close the theatre, and says the café would instead be leased out to a third-party operator.
But Cllr Rooney said: "People see they're on about closing the café and having somebody else in to do the café. People are worried that that's not actually going to happen - the café is going to be closed and that's going to be the end of it.
"There's been talk that they're going to maybe reduce [opening hours] another day.
"I think the main concern is if we see another day go, will that be a slow slide to the whole place closing?
"It's a lovely little theatre, we've got some great shows.
"I have set up a petition, and lots of people have come along and signed that petition. Hopefully we won't need that petition but we've got it in case we do. The feeling's very strong, we must keep the Empire."
Cllr Kathryn Rooney. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)
The theatre was among a number of council-run facilities included in a list of budget savings options published earlier this month.
Paul Darby, Durham County Council’s corporate director of resources, said previously: “The savings we are suggesting include a proposal to close the cafe at the Empire Theatre in Consett in recognition of private sector cafe operators in the area, and to review cinema activities."
The 500-seat venue, which dates back to 1913, hosts a programme of touring theatre productions, music concerts, comedy, dance performances and children's shows.
'Absolutely no plans' to close theatre
Durham County Council's cabinet member for resources, investment and assets, Karen Allison, insisted there were "absolutely no plans" to close the venue.
"Contrary to reports suggesting that Consett Empire Theatre is facing closure, this Reform UK administration has absolutely no plans to close the Empire Theatre," she said in a post on Facebook.
"The reality is quite the opposite. We recognise the Empire as an important community asset and want to see it thrive for years to come."
The Consett Empire Theatre is subject to a consultation on whether to close the café. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)
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Cllr Allison said the proposal currently being explored would see the café leased to a private operator rather than shut down altogether.
"This is about improving the offer at the venue, increasing footfall and ensuring the facility is run as effectively as possible. It is not about closing the theatre." she added.
The council is currently consulting on its proposed savings package before a final decision is made ahead of next February's budget.