Winding-up order against company running Halifax's Square Chapel Arts Centre

The order forces Square Chapel CIC (Community Interest Company) to close down and into compulsory liquidation.

It was issued after a winding-up petition was lodged in court by HMRC – a creditor of Square Chapel CIC.

It is not yet known how this will effect the future of the building, which has not been open since its sudden closure last year.

When a winding-up order is issued against a company, the firm’s bank account will usually be frozen and its assets or property will be sold by the official receiver.

Square Chapel CIC announced in February 2025 it was shutting the theatre and cancelling planned performances “whilst we work with professional services to discuss the future of the venue”.

Before that, concern for the future of the theatre had been growing for some time, with the Courier reporting in September 2024 how a spokesperson for the group running the venue had admitted there were “a number of artists” who had not been paid following performances there.

Square Chapel CIC – a non-profit organisation – was formed in 2020 after Arts At The Mill CIC – the umbrella for Wigan organisations The Old Courts, Wigan Pier and The Royal Court Theatre – took over the theatre.

Members of Save Square Chapel Campaign have been lobbying Arts Council England, Calderdale Council and others to try to get the theatre open again.

Since February 2025, the building’s only use has been temporarily as a green room for artists during last summer’s Live at The Piece Hall gigs.

It is understood the same temporary use has been granted for this summer’s gigs, which start on Saturday.

The Courier reported in September how Square Chapel CIC had avoided being struck off.

Notice had been issued by the Registrar of Companies that unless “cause was shown to the contrary” the company would be struck off the register and dissolved.

But, according to one of the documents logged by Companies House, the striking off action was discontinued after “cause was shown” why the company should not be struck off.

Companies can be struck off the register voluntarily if the directors want to close the business down and move to another venture, directors reach retirement and/or they have no one to pass the company down to.

A compulsory striking off can take place for various reasons including a failure to submit timely accounts or an annual confirmation statement, if a company has ceased trading, or if no directors have been appointed.

To avoid a company striking off notice, companies must be sure to respond to Companies House to address any issues raised.