EXCLUSIVE: Communication systems for Ryde’s Pubwatch and Shopwatch are reportedly down after power was cut to the former Ryde Town Hall yesterday (Thursday).
Engineers from Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) have terminated the supply to the former Town Hall and Theatre, meaning the antenna sitting on top of the grand building is no longer transmitting.
Ryde Town Hall was built in 1831 and later became a popular theatre. Sadly, the doors were closed for the last time in 2005 – some 12 years ago. In 2013 Ryde Theatre was sold by the Isle of Wight Council to Mr Joe Gladdis for £300,000 but it has never reopened, despite ambitious plans.
It has been confirmed to Island Echo that the electricity supply has been cut off due to non payment by Green Eye Events Limited*. It isn’t clear if Ryde Theatre has changed hands since being purchased by Mr Gladdis 4 years ago.
The local communication network between shops has been described as ‘absolutely dead’.
*Green Eye Events have informed Island Echo that they ceased responsibility for utilities at Ryde Theatre in 2015
