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 said. “The reason costs have increased is due to Council inaction. Now there are further delays. That means further cost escalations.”

Supporters of the project argue the decision contrasts with continued investment in sporting infrastructure across the municipality. They note Ku-ring-gai has dozens of sporting facilities but comparatively limited arts infrastructure.

The vote also comes despite the council’s Arts and Cultural Community Reference Committee identifying arts and cultural venues as a priority. Campaigners say the committee was not consulted before the decision was made.

Despite the setback – and the current state of the building, which as been vandalised despite security fencing – advocates are continuing their campaign. A petition before the NSW Parliament is calling on the state government to work with Ku-ring-gai Council to reopen Marian St Arts Centre within three years.

“The tragedy is not that Marian St couldn’t be saved,” Blaxland Ashby said. “The tragedy is that it was ready.”