Plans to transform Telford Theatre are approved
Plans to transform Telford Theatre, creating a new modern facility for generations to come, have been approved.
The project in Oakengates will deliver new state-of-the-art theatre facilities and enhance the visitor experience with work expected to start in the new year.
New facilities include a larger main auditorium, modernised backstage facilities and 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 and new bar with upgraded amenities.
Telford Theatre will be offering a more diverse cultural programme with the expansion of the main auditorium and new studio theatre which will benefit existing theatre patrons and attract new audiences from locally and beyond.
The visitor experience will also be enhanced with new fully accessible facilities and a front of house hospitality offer.
Telford & Wrekin Council has received £15.5m from central government and topped up the total funding investment to deliver the project.
The majority of the theatre in Oakengates will be completely rebuilt, transforming both the exterior and interior of the building.
The new facility will reduce the theatre’s carbon footprint with an estimated 90% reduction and support the local economy by delivering new jobs and increasing volunteering opportunities at the theatre.
Plans have been shaped following extensive consultations with residents, businesses, stakeholders and theatre patrons.
Consultations included a public event and a community survey completed by 597 people in December 2023 and a consultation session held with the disabled community on 21 March 2024.
This Oakengates theatre development is part of a wider Investing in Telford and Wrekin programme which is also seeing significant investment and transformation in other areas of Oakengates and the borough including Telford Town Centre and Wellington.
Councillor Angela McClements (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Tourism, Culture and the Arts, said: "We’re delighted that plans to remodel Telford Theatre have been approved meaning work starting on this exciting project is a step closer.
“This is extremely positive news for Oakengates and is all part of our commitment to build a better borough through the wider Investing in Telford and Wrekin programme.
“The programme is breathing new life into some of our most historic buildings, creating new spaces for the future and providing opportunities to learn new skills, secure great jobs, enjoy top cultural activities and live in an attractive place we can all be proud of.
“The new theatre will make Oakengates a more exciting and vibrant place to be and boost the local economy, as well as reducing the theatre’s carbon footprint considerably.”
