CAMPAIGNERS left dismayed by proposals to redevelop The Alexandra Theatre space in Newton Abbot have created an online e-petition in the hope of ‘saving’ the theatre.

Proposed plans to redevelop much of Newton Abbot town centre include converting part of the historic theatre building into a hospitality area.

Proposals have also suggested moving the cinema into a new facility in Market Square.

A petition dubbed ‘Save The Alexandra Theatre’ has now attracted almost 3,000 signatures.

Claire Holden, who is a member the Newton Abbot and District Musical Comedy Society, said she was ‘deeply saddened’ to see the proposed plans could see the theatre space replaced with an open dining area.

Claire, who has been involved with the theatre since she was a child, thought the plans could be a ‘huge loss’ for the town.

Although groups using the theatre have been told that an alternative space will be provided Claire, among other theatre-goers, fear that a site of equal suitability – with a stage and lighting – will be difficult to find.

The Alexandra was built as the corn exchange in 1871.

The Grade II listed building was also used as an all-purpose community space before hosting theatre groups.

Some theatre fans in the town believe that now is the time to create a suitable venue for the district due to a national decline in concert venues and performance spaces.

In light of the proposals, a group called ‘Friends of the Alexandra Theatre’ is being formed.

In response to the concerns, a spokesman for Teignbridge Council said it was pleased that so many people are taking an interest in the proposals and they would encourage them to respond to the feedback questionnaire on the Market Quarter proposals via the Teignbridge Council website.

The spokesman added: ‘This is an opportunity for a major cash boost to the local economy, helping to regenerate the area to ensure the sustainability of these heritage buildings which were originally designed to offer a commercial and social focus for the town as the Pannier Market and Corn Exchange.

‘We are looking to transform the space to include a new eating quarter, a remodelled entertainment and events venue and a high quality market space, alongside a new purpose built building which will host a state of the art cinema, to provide employment opportunities and a fully accessible space for all our residents.

‘In recent years the theatre space has only been used for about three weeks a year and we will continue to have discussions with those involved with the Alexandra Cinema about how different needs can be accommodated as plans evolve.’

To have your say on the theatre and the wider plans for Newton Abbot town centre: please visit: www.teignbridge.gov.uk/community-and-people/major-projects-and-regeneration/future-high-street-fund/market-quarter-proposals/.