Now the police station in Borehamwood has been moved into the Hertsmere Borough Council civic offices, it is an opportunity for the council to put right the wrong they did to the people of Borehamwood back in 1997, when they promised to erect a multi-purpose theatre to replace the civic hall, which they had knocked down, and was to be included in the building known as the Venue.

The civic hall showed films, stage shows, dancing and also a place where drama groups had their shows and all kinds of other events. It was also a place where people could drop in for a meal and a drink. In short, it was a joy for the community to visit.

What we have now been left with is a basic theatre, called the Ark, which is attached to a school. I have driven frequently down Elstree Way but have never seen any signs directing you to the Ark. Probably they thought it wasn’t important enough. But if you happen to be parking around the back of the Venue at night you would probably see an unlit wooden sign at the Ark entrance, hardly a motivation for a good night out.

When they were in the process of constructing the new multi-purpose theatre, in 1997, the contractors had to be compensated, as the local authority decided to pull out. This was because the authorities said that they would have been unable to maintain its running costs and instead a hotel called the Ibis was built in its place.

Please can Hertsmere Council consider putting the multi-purpose theatre that was promised to us back in 1997 into the space vacated by the police station opposite the Venue? This would allow easy access to it, particularly when driving through Elstree Way and for those who have to use public transport. This location, on the Elstree corridor, would be visible to all, including visitors to Borehamwood.

Given that more houses are scheduled to be built in Borehamwood, there will be a bigger demand for entertainment venues in the town. A multi-purpose theatre would clearly satisfy that demand.

Mr H Marshall

Alexandra Road, Borehamwood