HAMPSHIRE civic chiefs are pressing ahead with the controversial transfer of the Tower Arts Centre in Winchester to a local secondary school.
County councillor Margaret Snaith, executive member for recreation and heritage, yesterday approved the move, ignoring cross-party calls for a delay for further research.
The transfer will almost certainly kill off the centre's evening shows, ending its reputation as a showcase for rising talent. Among performers have been comedians Eddie Izzard, Jo Brand, the Mighty Boosh and Sean Hughes.
The decision now means a question mark hangs over the jobs of the centre's staff including its long-serving manager John Tellett.
Cllr Snaith argued that the reopening of the revamped Winchester library in Jewry Street, including a performance space, makes the centre redundant.
Full story in tomorrow's Daily Echo.
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