Urgent repairs to the roof of Theatre Royal Plymouth (TRP) will get underway next week.
Plymouth City Council, as landlord to the building, is funding the work which is needed to stop water getting in through the fly tower and smoke vent roofs. The repairs include new felting and drainage improvements.
The scaffolding has started to go up to the rear of the theatre in preparation for the work to be carried out by contractors Cleggs and Shortman. It is expected to take 12 weeks.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities said: “It’s good to see this important work get underway.
“This building and its staff play such an important role in the vitality of our city, in our economy and inspiring people of all ages and background, that we need to invest in the building to make sure it is fit for purpose.”
CEO and Executive Producer at Theatre Royal Plymouth, James Mackenzie-Blackman said: “The theatre was built 42 years ago, and since then we have welcomed over eight million visitors. As such, it is inevitable that the building needs investment.
“The roof repairs are crucial for us to continue providing a safe and welcoming space for all audience members, artists and community participants, as well as our staff.
“We will continue to work with the council, as our landlord, to preserve our world class venue and are very grateful for their support with these important works.”
The building was commissioned by Plymouth City Council as a venue that could cater for both large and small productions. Its main 1,300-seater auditorium has a movable roof that can be lowered to conceal the upper seating. It was opened in 1982. In 2018 the building was given Grade II listing status.