Everyman theatre plans approved

24 Aug 2010, 12:53

Liverpool City Council has today given planning approval for the rebuilding of the Everyman theatre on Hope Street.

Council leader, Cllr Joe Anderson, described the project as "a vital redevelopment for the city's future. The Everyman is a real gem in Liverpool's cultural life and while it will have a new-look it will retain its unique spirit."

The planning application was submitted in May at which time CABE (Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment) described the design, by specialist theatre architect Haworth Tompkins, as "an exemplar in all aspects of its design."

The £28m redevelopment is scheduled to go on site in 2011 so that the new Everyman will open in 2013.

The project will include:

A new 400-seat theatre including second level of seating
A recreation of the existing Everyman Bistro bar and restaurant
A dedicated space for working with youth theatre, schools and community groups
Front-of-house, catering and bar facilities
Rehearsal space and production workshops

The existing theatre building is 6,000 sq ft, which is being increased to 15,500 sq ft plus a 1,022 sq ft loading bay.

A statement from the theatre today said: "Since the recent announcement £2.4m North West Development Agency funds would no longer be available to support the project, the Everyman management team has been engaged in positive discussions with all project stakeholders to close this gap and maintain the quality and momentum of the project. All remain fully committed to making it happen."

Deborah Aydon, executive director, added: "This is a fantastic endorsement by the City Council and a very positive signal to our stakeholders and funding partners. It will be a great boost to ongoing negotiations and help maintain the strong momentum of the Everyman redevelopment."

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