Community groups are being invited to help breathe new life into an entertainment venue in Halesowen, with plans to transfer the running of the site to them.

Dudley Council is looking to transfer the day-to-day running of Cornbow Hall in Halesowen.

It would mean a community group organising shows, events and other attractions at the town centre venue, with the council retaining ownership of the site.

The move would save £96,000 a year of public spend but more importantly would breathe new life into the building.

It is similar to the ongoing arrangement with Dudley Council for Voluntary Service involving Brierley Hill Civic Hall which has seen the landmark building revitalised with greater community use and some of the top names in national comedy and entertainment appearing on stage. Councillor Ian Kettle, cabinet member for planning and economic development, said:

“We have some fantastic community groups using the venue now for popular events and it is only right we look to build on that. A community group running the venue could give this venue fresh impetus to bring in new acts which will in turn help bring even more people to the town.

“We have already proven this approach can be very successful with Brierley Hill Civic Hall going from strength to strength. But it is important we find the right group who share our vision for keeping this in community use and create a vibrant, inclusive community asset.”

Applicants would have to demonstrate a strong business plan that is financially sustainable to ensure the venue can remain open for future generations. They must also be able to show how the building would be used for wider use for the benefit of the whole of the community.

Interested parties have until December 15th to register an interest. Business cases need to be submitted by the end of February next year before a successful applicant is announced in March.

The council is currently working with user groups to keep them up to speed on the development of the proposals.