Unity Theatre to undergo revamp

Proposals have been submitted to Arts Council England for funding to modernise Unity Theatre in Liverpool’s Hope Street.

The £750,000 improvements will include relocating the entrance, soundproofing, and new equipment.

K2 Architects is working with Unity Theatre on the plans.

If successful the application to Arts Council England will provide around £450,000, with the rest of the funding to be delivered via Liverpool City Council and other Trusts.

A decision on funding is due to be announced in February. In the interim K2 is arranging a series of workshops inviting local stakeholders to offer feedback on the proposals. A planning application will be submitted in the New Year.

The refurbishment is aimed at attracting a new generation of audiences to the venue by enhancing the visitor experience, increasing frequency of performances and driving up revenues in all areas of the business.

Kevin Horton, director of K2, said: “This is truly a gem of a cultural venue with a significant community heritage. Whilst it has always been popular with the local community, it is abundantly clear that the buildings physicality is not allowing the management to operate to their maximum potential and that there are a number of significant obstacles to overcome to help secure the venues long term sustainability.”

Matthew Linley, Unity’s artistic director and chief executive, said: “We took the challenge to the team at K2, because their brand values and ethos very much reflected our own. Their creative approach to working with us and our stakeholders has given us a scheme which has incredible and truly inspiring potential.”