Cllr Jacqui Orme, of Dunning Walk, Teignmouth, writes:  

I would just like to clarify our objectives in bringing the Riviera auditorium back into public use. The building has a stunning art deco interior with an attractive neo-classical exterior, much of which has been tastefully refurbished.

It is tragic that such a majestic building stands partially empty and the owner would be fully supportive of it being brought back into use and run by a community group on a long lease. However, it is vital that we make it clear that it will not be in competition with any plans and objectives for the Carlton and would not be utilising any of those funding streams.

To convert the Riviera for the kind of uses proposed for the Carlton would not give the range of uses that building could accommodate. In my view the Riviera would be best focused primarily on cinema and perhaps occasional larger performances and events where the audiences cannot be accommodated at the Carlton, for which the unique selling point would be the venue's great architectural interest.

We expect this would generate sufficient revenue to ensure financial viability and, in common with comparable successful community run facilities in similar locations, could provide support for other local community projects once established and give a much needed boost to the local economy.

Whilst the Riviera is a delightful building it would not, and should not, compromise the regeneration of the Carlton site. If the request for a modest amount of support from the Elector Fund is successful, bearing in mind that it will only be awarded to joint projects with neighbouring towns and parishes, the survey undertaken will establish the need for this type of venue and ensure that it is sustainable and financially viable, without compromising the much needed redevelopment of the Carlton Theatre.

During the last few years volunteers have worked tirelessly for the benefit of Teignmouth and with the needs of the local community at heart. From music, art, theatre and dance through to hundreds of thousands of pounds of charity fundraising, Teignmouth has a high proportion of talented, industrious altruistic individuals, community groups and organisations. With more of these groups co-operating and working together we should be able to ensure, with the support of residents and the additional visitors improvements to the town would attract, that the two projects could fulfil complementary roles.

Teignbridge remains supportive in principle of bringing the Riviera auditorium back into use but would be unable to provide wider financial support; therefore, it is down to a community group such as ours to drive the project forward and ensure its financial model works, whilst their efforts are focused upon the regeneration of the Carlton site.

Feasibility studies will be instrumental for both projects to establish long term sustainability and ensure that the opinions of a large cross section of the community are represented.

I look forward to ongoing dialogue with all groups and individuals passionate about driving forward some great projects and supporting the arts, creativity and entertainment in the local area long into the future.MORE LETTERS IN OUR DIGITAL EDITION