Liam Kerr MSP has written to Aberdeen City Council calling for partnerships with businesses, educational institutions, and national arts organisations to be explored to safeguard the future of Aberdeen Arts Centre.
The North East MSP wants to see a council consultation take place to underline the value of the cultural hub amid concerns it could close after a recent bid for £170,000 funding was rejected by the local authority.
Mr Kerr has sought assurances that the council will continue to allow the Arts Centre to use the building on King Street for years to come, which would help strengthen its position to raise external funding and attract corporate partners.
Those running the facility are worried they will run out of money, but say they’re determined the curtain won’t fall for a final time and have launched a public appeal for help.
It comes as Mr Kerr met chief executive of Aberdeen Performing Arts, Sharon Burgess, and interim executive director of Aberdeen Arts Centre, Sharon Catchpole.
He also wants the council to also explore alternative models, such as a community trust or social enterprise structure, to help protect its future.
In his letter to council bosses, Mr Kerr described AAC has the “cornerstone of our city’s cultural and social fabric”.
He said: “As a valued cultural institution in our city, Aberdeen Arts Centre plays a vital role in enriching the lives of residents, supporting local talent, and fostering community cohesion.
“Its potential closure would be a profound loss to Aberdeen’s cultural landscape.
“Aberdeen Arts Centre is far more than a performance venue – it is a hub for creativity, education, and inclusion.
“The arts centre has also repeatedly sought a letter of comfort from Aberdeen City Council to confirm that their tenure of the building will remain in place for a period of at least 20 years, having formally requested this twice and followed up on both occasions.
“Such an assurance would significantly strengthen the centre’s position to raise external funding and attract corporate partners as it works towards its £180,000 fundraising target by July 1, and beyond.”
Mr Kerr added in his letter: “Aberdeen Arts Centre is a cornerstone of our city’s cultural and social fabric.
“I urge the council to consider every possible avenue to preserve this important institution for current and future generations.”
Aberdeen Arts Centre is an independent arts venue and registered charity in the heart of Aberdeen. For over 60 years, it has played a crucial role in the north east’s vibrant arts scene through its programme of performances, Creative Learning Programme for children and adults, and an Artist Development Programme to support local professional creatives.
In May 2025, the centre launched the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign – a three-year fundraising drive to raise £660,000 to secure its future. Its first milestone is to raise £180,000 by July 2. Individuals and corporate sponsors can find out more – and donate – at https://www.aberdeenartscentre.com/save-aberdeen-arts-centre.
