THE founder of The Arches says the building will crumble unless it is used again soon.

Andy Arnold, who ran the famous venue under Glasgow’s Central Station from 1991 to 2008, said last year’s controversial closure of the venue “is a poor reflection on the cultural optimism of this city”.

He said he is concerned that if the spaces are not used soon they will become damp and damaged.

The venue beneath Glasgow Central Station was shut last June after Glasgow Licensing Board removed the licence to run its clubs following pressure from Police Scotland following three drug-related deaths. Network Rail own the Arches space and say they are  looking for new tenants.

Mr Arnold, who is now artistic director of Tron Theatre, says: “With the power turned off, I can guarantee that the dampness will quickly return, the paint will start to peel and the floorboards will warp and buckle.

“After all, those cantilevered arches were built to drain the water from the tracks above, and that water, along with the mice and rats, will find ways to seep back into the interior.

“Before its renovation in 1990 the building had spent 60 years derelict and unused. The landlords will look for another commercial tenant but I think the range of potential uses is surprisingly limited.”

Mr Arnold said that an arts company could use the site – which has had its equipment and furniture auctioned – until a full time new tenant is found. He says: “It might be worth it for some homeless theatre makers to ask for the keys so that they can use the place and keep the lights on while prospective commercial tenants are being sought – I’d recommend it.”

A Network Rail spokesman said: “We are seeking to let the property and will maintain the space until a new tenant is identified. Network Rail had a longstanding relationship with the Arches and it was disappointing to see the venue close.”