Dozens of people across Bromley and beyond are “gutted” and “saddened” by the news of the Churchill Theatre being up for sale on RightMove.

The building listed on Rightmove comprises a parade of six shops (sold off long leasehold), library and theatre building across up to 13 storeys.

The property is 0.6 acres and has existing leases.

Unconditional offers are invited for the freehold interest, with the price listed as Price on Application (POA) on RightMove.

The Central Library is set to move to what was once a Topshop store at the bottom of the high street, despite the cost of the move cited as being £15.5million.

The plans were discussed at an executive meeting for Bromley Council on October 18, with council officers saying in their report that the building was built in 1970 and is now in a poor condition.

The move to the former Topshop site scheduled to be completed in April 2026.

Despite the advertisement, a spokesperson for Bromley Council said it is "continuing with plans" to ensure that a state-of-the art theatre remains "anchored" at the "very heart" of Bromley Town Centre.

A spokesperson said: "Whilst discussions remain ongoing with the theatre’s current operators Trafalgar Group, the council is also going out to market to invite additional expressions of interest, to secure the future of the theatre, in line with its statutory duty to obtain best value for Council Taxpayers money, prior to reaching a final decision.

“Our ambitions for Bromley Town centre remain undimmed, despite the well-publicised squeeze on local councils’ funding.

"There is still much work to be done and further news will follow when appropriate.”

Many people across south east London have expressed their concerns about the listing, calling it a "shame" because it has been their "go-to" theatre for watching local community performances and West End shows.

Katrina Hurst said: “Although I don’t live in the Bromley area anymore, I am gutted knowing that its up for sale.

“Where will the Bromley people go to read books and watch performances?”

Colin Newmarch said: I have lived in Bromley for years the town, a mere shadow of its former self.

“If the theatre goes, final nail in the coffin.”

Lisa Catt said she worked at the theatre for seven years when it was her “happiest working life”.

Francesca Lucarino expressed her concerns for the closure of buildings on the high street.

She said: “Cinema gone, theatre gone, library gone.

“No space for culture in Bromley, and even the shops and the mall are getting worse and emptier every day.”

Caroline Monk said: “Churchill is my go-to theatre if I miss a show in the west end or I want to see the tour - it’ll be beyond sad to see that go.”

Olivia Drew said the Churchill Theatre is “great” and a “good alternative” if you can’t afford or don’t want to go into central London to watch a show.

Amanda Lock said: “Awful news this is closing.

“Not everyone can get to a London theatre, older people and others with special needs.

“My son goes to this theatre on a regular basis.

“In fact, there tonight to watch Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, it’s a sad loss to everyone.”

Joshua Francis said: “I used to love going to Bromley Library as a kid growing up.

“Never been to the theatre, but I know how important it is.”

Juliet-Ann Burgis said she hopes the building keeps going as a theatre, as the seating is “so comfortable” with lots of space.

“It’s much better than west end ones”, she added.

John Kimmons said: “This is such a shame.

“I fell in love with Bromley and its gorgeous theatre last Christmas when I was lucky enough to be cast in the panto.

“So much so that I've travelled back to see shows there, despite it being 180 miles from my home - I hope it doesn't close down.”

Kara Luisa said she used to visit the theatre, but since it is moving into a ULEZ zone, she avoids Bromley.

Anna Olowo added: “Bromley High Street will no longer exist the way it is going.”

Barry Hainsworth said: “Let's hope someone saves it.”