TAMESIDE Council has been warned by the national theatre watchdog that it must be consulted on any development of Tameside Hippodrome.

The London-based Theatres Trust protects and promotes the value and integrity of theatres across the country.

They were alerted by former actress and dancer Norma Clough, 73, who was put in touch with them when she wrote to culture secretary Andy Burnham to protest against the Ashton theatre’s closure.

She wrote that the "heart has been knocked out of our town" and asked for their help to secure the future of the historic theatre.

The trust’s planning and architecture advisor, Mark Price, responded by writing to the council to tell them it must be consulted on any planning applications to do with the theatre.

He said: "The Theatres Trust is concerned about the future of the theatre particularly as there is much local concern about the loss of the venue.

"It is important that the needs of the local community are accommodated by the use of this building for cultural activities and we would be interested to learn the basis for its closure.

"It has been well used by mid-scale touring productions, two local amateur dramatic societies, youth groups and dance schools and provides the community with a valuable cultural facility."

Many UK theatres are managed by their local authority, he added.

Mrs Clough said she felt very encouraged by the response.

The Ashton grandmother joined Ashton Operatic Society in 1951 and appeared on stage at the Hippodrome dozens of times before setting up a youth theatre in Guide Bridge.

She said: "Nobody seems to have made any inroads into what’s going on behind those closed doors, so I’m really pleased the trust are interested.

"This theatre has touched people’s lives. I’ve been connected with the operatics for years and I just thought I won’t be much good standing on Ashton market campaigning because my legs keep collapsing under me, so instead I’ll write and I’ll write until I get some answers to my questions."

The Hippodrome closed its doors on 1 April. Tameside Council said it was shut down for refurbishment. No council comment was available as we went to press.