A WINCHESTER am-dram company has secured the freehold of its venue, its home since 1962.

Winchester Dramatic Society says it is "delighted to announce acquisition of the freehold interest in the Chesil Theatre in Chesil Street".

The society applied in August 2023 for planning permission to demolish the next-door house for a long-awaited extension.

Formerly the Church of St Peter, the medieval building is listed. The society has used at at no rent but subject to keeping the building in good repair. After negotiations with the Church Commissioners and a public consultation last year the ownership has now been successfully transferred. It is unclear whether the transaction has involved any payment.

Proposed extension for Chesil Theatre, August 2023Proposed extension for Chesil Theatre, August 2023 (Image: Chesil Theatre)

President Tom Williams said: “The society has proved itself an excellent custodian of this historic building for more than 60 years and this will of course continue. Transfer of the freehold gives us a greater sense of permanence.  We can look forward to our future extension plans with confidence.”

Chairman Stephanie Danby said: “We are grateful for the foresight of earlier members in taking the bold step of creating a new theatre in Winchester. However, our activities have certainly expanded since 1962, with a full seasonal programme as well as our thriving Chesil Youth Theatre and community outreach projects. We’re currently bursting at the seams.

"Two years ago, we bought land next to the Chesil Theatre for a much-needed annexe and a planning application has been lodged. Now we have taken a further step forward as freehold owners of the existing building. This enables us to ensure the continued viability and sustainability of Chesil Theatre as a vibrant community arts centre.”

Ms Danby declined to discuss the now year-old planning application because, she said, "we do not wish to jeopardise the planning process in any way."

First mention of a building was made in the Winton Domesday of 1148. St Peter’s Church become redundant after the Second World War. By the late 1950s it was in a dangerous condition with one wall likely to collapse into Chesil Street. At this time Winchester Dramatic Society was looking for a permanent home. With assistance from the Winchester Preservation Society (now City of Winchester Trust) repairs were made and conversion to the present-day theatre.

Members of the public can tour the Chesil Theatre on Saturday September 7 as part of the UK-wide Heritage Open Days celebration.

Chesil Theatre’s opening season show Last of the Red Hot Lovers is now booking and runs from September 28-October 5.  Open auditions for Jekyll and Hyde take place on September 1-2 – newcomers are welcome.