Lease extension for Chester’s Storyhouse

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Cabinet will be asked to approve the extension of the current lease for Storyhouse in Chester.

Storyhouse is an innovative and internationally renowned cultural centre that opened in Chester in 2017. It combines a theatre, library, cinema and restaurant and is a community space all under one roof, offering a unique and inclusive experience. Cabinet Members are now being asked to extend the current lease from 2037 for up to a further ten years to 2047, a reflection of Storyhouse’s sustained success and its vital role in the city. 

Attracting more than 850,000 visitors annually, Storyhouse has significantly exceeded original expectations, becoming a vibrant hub for the community. Its diverse programming includes Storyhouse Originals – shows made in Chester – and a wide range of educational and training initiatives, particularly benefiting under-served young people across Chester, and marginalised communities. Throughout the summer, over 28,000 visitors are drawn to Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre and Storyhouse’s other outdoor events, making cultural experiences accessible to all.

Storyhouse’s reach extends beyond entertainment, fostering social impact through its work with schools, other charities, and community groups, ensuring that culture and creativity are accessible to every corner of the city. 

Councillor Lisa Denson, Cabinet Member for A Fairer Future explained:

“Storyhouse has made a huge contribution to Chester’s reputation as a major cultural destination. Around 39% of the ticket buying audience that visit Storyhouse come from outside the borough, supporting our local economy by spending in restaurants, bars, hotels and parking across the city.

“Storyhouse directly employ an average of 142 staff per year. Last year, they spent £2.2m on the direct employment of local people. In addition, a further £2m was spent with suppliers and organisations who helped them to deliver their work.” 

Annabel Turpin, Chief Executive of Storyhouse said:

“This extension will help provide Storyhouse and all our stakeholders with longer term security around use of the building, which is core to our work. It will enable us to continue to develop and deliver our exciting plans for the future with an increased sense of certainty and further cement our valuable partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council. 

“Storyhouse has become a vital cultural hub for communities across the borough, and despite only being seven years old, many people tell me they can’t now imagine Chester without it – a real testament to the original vision for the building.” 

Added Councillor Denson:

“Extending the lease, will support Storyhouse to further develop their strategic plans including seeking additional external investment to support its ambitious community engaged programme.” 

If approved, the lease extension will guarantee a longer partnership between the Council and Storyhouse, benefiting the local and wider community. 

The Chester Literature Festival returns to Storyhouse in November, to see the full programme visit: 

www.storyhouse.com