Plans for an upgraded Telford Theatre design have been submitted, with a view to works beginning this autumn.

Demolition of the former Oakengates nursery and auditorium opened up areas of the site that were previously inaccessible, allowing further detailed investigations to support the new building design.

The latest plans include a new-look entrance foyer and box office, larger community and rehearsal spaces, bigger bar areas and additional toilet facilities.

This multi-million-pound project will now see the full demolition and replacement of the theatre, which was originally built in the 1960s and was suffering from significant structural defects.

As part of the revised plans, the Council has agreed with National Grid Electricity Distribution to relocate the substation, currently situated at the theatre, allowing the next stage of works to take place. A contractor has also been appointed to carry out the building works once plans are greenlit.

New facilities will include a 766 seat main auditorium, a separate studio theatre which can support community groups and smaller acts, a new community art room, as well as a newly transformed foyer, theatre dining area, new bar areas with upgraded amenities and modernised backstage facilities.

The Telford Theatre project will deliver:

• upgraded state-of-the-art facilities including a larger main auditorium for bigger and better performances, and modernised backstage facilities for artists
• a separate studio theatre providing a new space for community groups to perform in and a broader cultural programme
• an enhanced visitor experience with a newly transformed foyer, a theatre dining offer and new bar with upgraded amenities for visitors’ comfort, including additional toilets
• a community art room to provide a dedicated space for community rehearsals and creative activities and collaboration
• sustainability improvements through investment into green technology to significantly reduce the theatre’s carbon footprint
• more space for community events and socialising turning Telford Theatre into a true cultural and social hub
• a new entrance to the theatre at car park level improving access for visitors.

You can find out more about the Telford Theatre project here.