Join us in the third anniversary month of the Council’s purchase of The Criterion, as we call for full transparency and the publication of a comprehensive business case before any additional funds are spent.

We are asking 

- Campaigners and opposition voices urge residents to contact their councillors, highlighting concerns over secrecy, massive potential costs, and the loss of other community projects.  

Sign the petition calling for 

We call on Gosport Borough Council to prioritise transparency, accountability, and responsible financial planning for the future of The Criterion Theatre. Sign this petition to demand clear plans and open decision-making.

1. A halt to all further spending on The Criterion until a comprehensive, publicly available business plan is published. This plan must include detailed development phases, a clear financial projection demonstrating business viability, and evidence of public value at each stage.

2. A clearly defined exit strategy with specific triggers should the proposed business development and phased approach prove unviable or fail to meet objectives.

3. Enhanced transparency and public involvement in decision-making, especially when the information is not commercially sensitive, to ensure community trust and accountability.

Context 

Overview

·         Three years after purchase, the Criterion remains empty and deteriorating; The council bought the historic theatre for £600,000 in 2022, but it has remained unused and semi-derelict since.

·         Massive funds were diverted from community projects to buy and plan the Criterion. £2.16 million was taken from other schemes like parks and sports facilities, to finance the theatre acquisition.

·         We have warned of high financial risks and uncertain costs for refurbishment  

·         Proposed plans could cost taxpayers up to £1.4 million, with no guarantee of long-term viability or public benefit.

·         Secrecy and lack of transparency fuel public concern and opposition. Reports are withheld from the public, and key decisions are made in private, raising fears of an uncosted vanity project.

·         A recent Conservative ward survey of residents said: The Criterion project is a waste of money, and funds should be redirected to the High Street. Many expressed strong opposition to spending on this. With some stating  ‘criticism of spending on "trophy projects" like the Criterion’