Curtains up on first act of Plan for Jobs Theatre Royal project

Work is starting this week on the redevelopment of the Theatre Royal – one of the projects in the city's Plan for Jobs.

Hoardings are to be put up around the piazza area and main entrance of the theatre by contractors BAM, ahead of work getting underway and site offices being installed.

The Regeneration Project is a £7 million project to redevelop the theatre which will also set the stage for a revival of the West End of the city. The substantial refurbishment includes a new auditorium, better access, as well as a makeover of the public areas outside the building.

Not only will the project create 30 construction jobs, create new permanent jobs and secure existing jobs in the theatre, it will lead to more being created, enabling the theatre to build its reputation further and keep visitors coming for years to come.

Plymouth City Council approved a £1,995,000 funding package to put in a lump sum for procured capital work instead of three years of revenue grant. The lease arrangement was restructured on the council-owned theatre building to meet Arts Council security requirements to pave the way for a £5 million Arts Council England commitment. The theatre has launched a major fundraising campaign to raise the additional £2 million.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: "We have 19 projects in our Plan for Jobs and this particular scheme is part of one that looks at how the regeneration of the West End can maximise local employment.

"The Theatre Royal is one of Plymouth's massive success stories and brings in visitors from all over the region day after day. Its incredible national reputation is also great for Plymouth as its spreads the word far and wide.

"This project has major job implications – not just the build, or the staff within the theatre but the businesses such as the cafes and bars and taxis will all see the benefits of this scheme."

The redevelopment will see the building re-clad to improve energy efficiency by up to 40 per cent; an extension to the front of the building allowing level access; a new Box Office, shop and cafe area which will significantly improve customer experience; an outdoor terrace area and an extended restaurant and a new studio space within the theatre basement which will provide a city centre location for work with young people and community groups.

For more information on the project visit the Theatre Royal website.