How could entertainment complex be run?

l Managed by a firm: employing a company to manage a council-controlled venue is becoming increasingly popular. Such operators include Everyman Media Ltd, Ambassador Theatre Group, Apollo, Academy Music Group and Open Wide International.

Benefits '“ for Arun include leaving the daily management to someone else as well as the choice of programming. The operator has greater buying power for programming and marketing than the council.

Disadvantages '“ can be lack of response to community needs, failure to plan beyond the management contract and venues in different towns being similar.

l Managed by a trust: a local trust with charitable status is now a frequent solution to managing peformance venues. This is happening in Bognor with the Hotham Arts Centre. Other places include Norwich and Plymouth.

Benefits '“ as well as the commercial reasons in option one, Arun also gains through strong community links.

Disadvantages '“ can lack human and financial resources and expertise.

l Managed by a commercial operator working with a trust:

A new model which would need to respond to the specific circumstances of the proposed venue. A commercial firm would have the overall agreement for the building. The operator would have to sub-contract with a local trust to deliver a specific programme of events.