THE operator of Carlisle's closed Sands Centre auditorium, GLL, has reaffirmed its 'commitment' to preserving jobs at the site and 'the long-term provision of cultural services'.

The group made the comments after concerns were raised by a source close to the venue about the dangers posed by the closure.

It was announced last week that the Sands Centre auditorium would be closed for an ‘extended’ period of time due to the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).

Mitigating steps to allow the Sands Centre to continue hosting events for a temporary period have been ruled out as they would have restricted the use of the auditorium leaving insufficient space for audiences and shows.

The source, who did not wish to be named but is close to the venue, said: “Recent ‘star bookings’ have been secured as a result of years of hard work promoting the city and venue’s reputation, by a dedicated and highly professional team, who have been building relationships and curating a broad and popular programme.

“All of this will be lost if the vitally important local staff simply become collateral damage.

"There is a real risk that the city’s cultural programme in terms of major events and artists, returns to the 80s/90s.”

Concern has been raised about job prospects at the venue but Sands Centre operator, GLL, said that they ‘hope to redeploy and reuse Sands Centre staff’ to ‘support the region’s cultural services.’

But despite these plans, the source claimed that '60 to 70' jobs are at risk at the venue.

"Many of these colleagues have worked here for many years, in some cases, since the place was first built in 1984," they said.

“In total 60-70 events/venue staff jobs are at risk, and whatever the case, the part time/casual staff have lost all shifts and income with immediate effect.

“Of particular concern is the loss of skilled theatre technicians who are already difficult to recruit, and will simply leave to take up the better paid freelance roles on offer from the various local production companies, and venues in Manchester, Scotland and Newcastle."

In response to the claims, a spokesperson for GLL said: "Our original statement outlines our commitment to our staff and the long-term provision of cultural services to the local area. 

"It is disappointing that an individual feels it appropriate to speculate and spread negativity, when GLL and the Council are working hard, in challenging circumstances, to minimise disruption, secure jobs and provide a positive roadmap for the future of the Sands."