2 December 2011
Last updated at 13:13 GMT

The centre on Greenland Street will close in the New Year

Liverpool’s Contemporary Urban Centre is to close with the loss of 33 jobs.

The arts and entertainment venue, in a renovated Grade II-listed Victorian warehouse on Greenland Street, is run by People Can.

The charity said funding cuts coupled with the economic downturn had forced the closure, which will take place in January.

The centre opened in 2008 and includes a cinema, theatre and auditorium, wedding venue and a restaurant and bar.

In April, the venue hosted BBC One’s Question Time and has held events for Liverpool Music Week and the Liverpool Biennial.

‘Great sadness’

People Can works with individuals and communities affected by domestic abuse, homelessness and offending.

Chief executive Maff Potts said: “It is with great sadness that we have had to take the decision to close the Contemporary Urban Centre.

“As a charity our first priority is always the people we support and continuing to deliver services to help those with fewer chances in life.

“Despite the fantastic work of the centre’s commercial team and successes at the venue, including recent events as part of Liverpool Music Week, no one is immune to the current economic climate.

“We are currently working closely with staff and are doing everything we can to support them in their search for new jobs.”