Questions raised over claims Worthing's theatres repay taxpayers sevenfold

A new report has claimed every pound invested in Worthing's theatres generates more than £7 for the local economy.
The Connaught Theatre in Worthing. Picture: Worthing Theatres SUS-170829-173101001The Connaught Theatre in Worthing. Picture: Worthing Theatres SUS-170829-173101001
The Connaught Theatre in Worthing. Picture: Worthing Theatres SUS-170829-173101001

That is the figure estimated by consultants Blue Sail, hired by Worthing Borough Council to explore the economic impact of the taxpayer-funded venues – but questions have been raised this week over the reliability of the figures, with the report using dated studies and data from theatres outside the town.