Theatre Royal Wakefield plans major upgrade and extension

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 06:32 · Archive

Plans have been submitted to upgrade and extend Theatre Royal Wakefield, a 132-year-old Grade II* listed building.

Wakefield Theatre Trust has submitted plans to upgrade and extend Theatre Royal Wakefield, a 132-year-old Grade II* listed venue designed by renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham in 1894. The proposals include a new second-floor extension above the building's west wing on Drury Lane, which would provide additional backstage facilities and a new lift and staircase to improve access throughout the building.

Internal alterations are also planned, including a new bar, dressing rooms, studio space and toilets. The auditorium would be upgraded with new lighting and improved seating in the stalls and dress circle, with capacity increasing from 493 to 510 seats.

Wakefield Theatre Trust said the improvements were needed to address a backlog of repair and conservation work while providing better access, modern facilities and new opportunities to generate income. The trust described the scheme as essential to secure the long-term future of the theatre as a vital heritage and cultural asset.

How it is being reported

• Expansion plans lodged for landmark theatreTrust aims to secure the future of Theatre Royal Wakefield as a 'vital heritage and cultural asset'.BBC Leeds And West Yorkshire · 27 Oct, 06:20
• Plans revealed to give Theatre Royal Wakefield major upgrade and extensionThe development would secure the long-term future of the 132-year-old venueYorkshire Evening Post · 27 Oct, 04:30

In this story: Theatre Royal Wakefield · Wakefield Theatre Trust · Wakefield · Frank Matcham

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