Save Riverside Theatre: Campaigners Call for Public Support

The curtains may soon fall for the final time at Coleraine’s iconic Riverside Theatre, but the local community, led by passionate voices like campaigner Steven Millar, is refusing to let that happen without a fight.

Ulster University has reportedly decided to close the 350-seat venue at the end of July, sparking public outcry, accusations of secrecy, and a powerful petition now exceeding 2,000 signatures.

The beloved theatre, which has stood for nearly 50 years and hosted everyone from Stephen Fry to James Nesbitt, is more than just bricks and stage lights. It’s a cultural lifeline, rooted in local identity, creativity, and community spirit. And according to Millar, the decision to shut it down has been made “behind closed doors”, with no public consultation, despite being a publicly funded space within a public university.

“This is unacceptable,” Millar declared on behalf of the Campaign to Save Riverside Theatre. “We are not asking for miracles. We are asking for transparency, accountability, and meaningful compromise.”

At the heart of the row is a contested plan by Ulster University to pass responsibility and costs to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. However, so far, there is no sign of an agreement, and the university has reportedly already met with trade unions to confirm the closure.

Mr Millar continued: "The theatre sits on the grounds of an educational institution that publicly commits to civic engagement, community partnership, and cultural enrichment. And yet, these values appear to be abandoned in this decision.

"The Riverside is deeply rooted in our local and regional identity. For almost 50 years, since its opening by Her Majesty The Queen, it has supported education, creativity, and community life.”

Now, the campaign urges more people to sign the petition and show their support for keeping the theatre alive. “This place means so much to our community, and we need to show how many people care,” Millar said.

Time is running out, but the message from Coleraine is clear: this fight is far from over.

Sign the petition here: https://chng.it/8gFpSckk6T
(And don’t forget to check your email to verify your signature—it won’t count otherwise!)