Council community services director Kevin O’Brien said the centre's committee were assessing historical paperwork and found there were possible irregularities with permits issued for the venue in the early 2000s.

He said the decision was made to close the venue while a thorough assessment was done as there could be possible safety issues.

“The committee of the Wesley Performing Arts Centre has made this decision to allow for a safe and timely assessment to take place,” he said.

"The assessment might lead to identifying issues at the centre that need to be fixed.

"It's also an opportunity to re-visit safety at the centre and because it is a public building we have to make sure everything is in order."

Mr O'Brien said building surveyors would examine the centre and he hoped to have a report from them in the next week to week and half.

"From there, we will determine what the next steps will be and if any further works need to be carried out," he said.

“The Wesley Performing Arts Centre has a long and proud history of nurturing the town’s creative industries and is well loved and respected by the community.

“Council is working closely with the committee to make sure the venue is back up and running as soon as possible.”

Mr O'Brien said at this stage, council wouldn’t take any bookings for the centre for December.

Council is also contacting groups with upcoming bookings to make alternate arrangements. 

Wesley Performing Arts Centre committee president Merryn Eagle safety was the number one priority.

Council will issue updates as the assessment progresses.