Theatre without planning permission loses High Court appeal

A theatre building that was constructed without planning permission has lost a High Court appeal against its closure.

Titchfield Festival Theatre’s (TFT) Arden stage, one of three belonging to the theatre complex, was built between 2021 and 2023 despite Fareham Borough Council only giving consent for the premises to be used for storage.

It was declared illegal by a planning inspector in August last year following a planning inquiry, with the theatre told it must cease performances within two months.

TFT was then given permission to appeal the decision in November, but the High Court has now upheld the inspector’s decision from last year, with the judge also dismissing other appeal grounds, including the wording of the enforcement notice.

A statement from TFT shared with the BBC says the trustees “are obviously disappointed with the ruling from the Judicial Review.”

“We are taking further legal advice on the potential outcomes. In the meantime, the Arden Theatre continues to operate,” the statement adds.

According to TFT’s website, it has scheduled performances up to May 17.