Tiny toilet theatre seeks new owner

Malvern Hills District Council Edith Walk TheatreMalvern Hills District Council
The Edith Walk Theatre was formerly a Victorian lavatory building

A tiny theatre based in a former public toilet in Worcestershire has been put up for sale.

The local council currently owns Edith Walk Theatre in Great Malvern, better known as the Theatre of Small Convenience due to its former use.

The authority says it is in need of a new owner to help bring it back to its former glory.

The unique theatre seats just 12 people, and gained a place in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2002 as the world's smallest commercial theatre.

The Victorian building has been closed since 2017 when its founder Dennis Neale retired.

The theatre also suffered fire damage in 2021, but has since been cleaned up and made safe.

'A piece of history'

The building is just 5m (16ft) long and 3m (10ft) wide.

Malvern Hills District Council is now inviting offers from individuals and organisations that can demonstrate they are able to provide a "fully-funded and sustainable use for the property".

Councillor John Gallagher said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to own a piece of history. Not only is it a unique building in Great Malvern, but it is also world record-breaking!”

He said it was essential the new owner understood the importance of sustaining the site.

Potential buyers can express their interest until 22 January.

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