Guildford Borough Council launches survey on the future of The Electric Theatre

Guildford Borough Council has launched a survey to ask residents and groups for their views on the future of The Electric Theatre. It is also holding several pop-up sessions in Guildford to hear directly from local people.

The goal is to find a future for The Electric Theatre that:

• reflects the needs and ideas of our community
• can be effectively maintained for years to come
• continues to inspire creativity and the arts in Guildford.

Cllr Julia McShane, Leader of the Council, said: “We’re really pleased with the number of people showing interest in this wonderful community arts and theatre venue.

"We've had numerous expressions of interest submitted to us but at this stage we're actively listening to our community. We are not requesting formal proposals and no decisions have been made. “We want to make sure that any decision the Council makes on the future of The Electric Theatre is informed by our community. So, I encourage everyone to get involved. Please either respond to the survey or stop by one of our pop-up sessions.

“Together, we can decide what happens next.”

Take part in the survey You can help shape the future of The Electric Theatre by responding to the survey online or collect a printed copy from these council locations in Guildford: Millmead office, the Tourist Information Centre, Guildford Museum and the Hive from next week. The survey will close on Sunday 7 December 2025.

Visit a pop-up session Come and tell the team your thoughts on how this arts and theatre venue could be used by the community.

• Sunday 16 November: midday to 2pm, Festive Fun Day, outside the Guildhall
• Tuesday 25 November: midday to 2pm, The Hive, Park Barn, GU2 8EN
• Tuesday 2 December: 11am to 1pm, Farmers Market, outside the Guildhall

In January, key stakeholders will be invited to a roundtable discussion to consider next steps and review the ideas that have been shared. The Council also expects to have an update on the building’s condition, so we understand of what needs to happen before it can be used again. The findings and recommendations will be presented to the Executive later in the year.

News Article by Guildford Borough Council