The future of the long-closed Marian Street Theatre has been thrown into further uncertainty after Ku-ring-gai Council voted to allow the redevelopment’s Development Application (DA) to lapse, despite more than $1.7 million having already been spent on planning, consultation and design work.

The decision, made at the council meeting on 16 June, effectively ends the only approved pathway to restoring a performing arts venue at the site, which has remained closed for more than 13 years.

A rendering of the Marion St Theatre redevelopment by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer

The approved redevelopment, designed by theatre specialists Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, would have transformed the venue into a contemporary arts centre featuring spaces for theatre, music, dance, exhibitions and community events.

Council staff noted during debate that alternative performing arts facilities were unlikely to be delivered in the medium term and would likely come at a similar cost to the Marian Street proposal, depending on their scope.

Marian St Theatre Action chair Jessica Blaxland Ashby described the vote as another setback after more than two decades of planning and consultation.

“After more than 20 years of reports, studies and consultation, the community didn’t need another delay,” she...