Growing up in Motherwell, some of my most cherished memories were made within the walls of the Motherwell Theatre and Concert Hall. Whether I was on stage performing or seated in the audience mesmerised by a play or concert, these venues were more than just buildings; they were places where community and culture came alive, enriching the lives of countless individuals in our town.

Now, these beloved institutions face the threat of demolition before plans for a suitable replacement have even been confirmed or approved. Demolishing these treasured cultural landmarks without a clear plan for replacement would leave a cultural void in our community and deprive future generations of the joy and cultural enrichment they offer.

Motherwell Theatre and the adjoining concert hall have long stood as cornerstones of our community’s cultural life. They host a diverse range of performances, from amateur dramatics and children's shows to professional theatre productions and live music events. They are accessible, providing an important outlet for local talents and a space for families and friends to come together.

Public funds have been invested into the upkeep of these buildings over the years, making them viable and valuable assets not only to our community but the wider region. It would be a waste of resources to demolish these buildings without a guaranteed replacement that can provide equal or greater benefits.

According to local reports, no viable replacement site for these venues has been proposed, nor have resources been allocated for their reconstruction. This lack of planning raises grave concerns about the future of cultural engagement in Motherwell. We cannot allow another cultural landmark to be lost due to short-sighted development plans.

We urge North Lanarkshire Council to halt the demolition until a new, purpose-built venue is approved and ready to break ground. By doing so, we can ensure that Motherwell remains a vibrant, culturally rich community for generations to come.

Please join me in standing against this unwarranted demolition by signing this petition. Together, we can make our voices heard and protect the cultural heart of Motherwell.