It’s not often a town is given a theatre. Even less likely that a town is given a theatre as a philanthropic act from a local company… But this is the true story of The Centre, or The Amulet as it became better known – that was given to the people of Shepton Mallet by Babycham founder Francis Showering in the 1970s.

A gift to the town, this building was intended to provide an incredible creative legacy for Shepton Mallet. Sadly, the building fell into disrepair and financial struggles.

The Amulet was transferred from public to private ownership many years ago. However, use of the Amulet is still designated as a theatre and community space for Shepton Mallet.

Failed restoration attempts, poor conditions and other challenges have meant this building has now sat empty for many years. Planning permission has just been submitted to Mendip District Council to change the use of the Amulet from a theatre into seven residential one-bedroom properties and one retail unit.

Once finally gone we will never get this theatre or civic space back; once a change of use is agreed this building and crucial space and opportunity within Shepton Mallet will be lost. Please consider signing the petition below to object to the change of use in the hope that we can find a new use for this space that fulfills some of the original intentions of the building and meets the growing ambitions of Shepton Mallet and the surrounding areas.

MOST IMPORTANTLY: Please also comment on the official planning application here - comments registered here will be taken into consideration by the planning board at the decision meeting. You can access this here: https://www.mendip.gov.uk/article/6358/View-and-Comment-on-Planning-Applications (Application number: 2020/1414).

You can also write to Mrs Kelly Pritchard Case Officer at Mendip District Council and your local Mendip Councillors to register your views.

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