THE Citadel will close its doors after more than 30 years of being an integral part of the town's arts scene.

It has been revealed that the Citadel Arts Centre building on Waterloo Street in the town centre, which was opened in April 1988, will close on June 30 this year.

Management cited "ever decreasing arts funding" and say they have tried everything within their power under financial constraints to keep the building open but the number didn't add up.

However, the Citadel charity's activities will continue but the board of trustees said they have to give up the building in order to "keep the organisations valuable community services alive".

Chief Executive Fay Lamb says the Citadel plans to work as an agency organisation, continuing to deliver theatre performances for children and families.

Fay said: "As a responsible business the Citadel must look at financial and artistic trends to ensure the vital activities of the Citadel Arts Centre Charity continue for the audiences and participants who benefit.

"It’s incredibly sad to be losing an iconic venue which local people regard with such fondness. I’m proud of everything the Citadel has achieved and I’m confident we can go on to different and better performance and participation programmes in the town with support from our partners."

She added: "Closing the Citadel building is a necessary heartache if it means the fantastic work of the Citadel can continue for years to come for the people of St Helens.’

"The Citadel has been working closely with St Helens Council and arts sector organisations in the town on ambitions for a St Helens Arts and Cultural Partnership changing the way arts is delivered and experienced in the town. The Citadel Agency model will form part of the towns evolving arts sector."

Fay says it is unknown whether there will be job losses at this stage, with six core staff at the building and others who work on events.

“Since opening 30 years ago the Citadel has helped to foster a real creative energy in the town which is now continuing with Heart of Glass, Cultural Hubs and the new Citadel Agency," added Fay.

"The landlords of the Citadel building, The Rainford Trust, have been incredibly supportive of the Citadel charity and remain supportive of the new Agency plans.

“There are no words to describe how it will feel to close the doors of the Citadel building for the final time.

"I would personally like to thank all the amazing Citadel staff, audiences and participants who have loved and supported the Citadel for the past 30 years.”

Anyone wishing to support the future of the Citadel Charity can donate to a Crowd Funding campaign at crowdfunder.co.uk/citadel