Good morning,

Some positive noises about the future of the city having a major venue again, and we've seen an interesting statement released by Preston City Council this week.

While there isn't much new from the council itself (feasibility study in progress, twin-track approach about either repair or rebuild) - although it definitely hints at any venue remaining in the current city centre location due to land ownership rather than being built elsewhere.

Arts Council England, who you'll remember were very much pointed at by DCMS in their response to MPs letters following the petition as having the keys to any future for the Guild Hall, now seem to be very much engaged. See the full story this morning.

It's also interesting to see Theatres Trust getting involved. We featured the Preston Musical Comedy Society sharing their concerns about theatre not getting enough of a billing in any potential venue solution.

We know the petition will never be directly referenced by those seeking to find a way forward for the Guild Hall, but it's here as a visible, public, reminder to those with the power, budgets and responsibility for resolving the situation. Thank you for signing the petition and keep sharing it and encouraging others to sign, as it acts as a public sign of the city's frustration at not having a major cultural venue to come together in. 

Progress is being made. Fingers crossed we hear more in the months ahead, we'll keep you updated.

Team BP