Consultation on theatre overhaul nears end

Less than a week remains before consultation closes on the proposed £30m redevelopment of Theatr Clwyd in Flintshire.

The 41-year old regional arts centre and producing theatre opened its consultation on 1 August, releasing images by architect Haworth Tompkins.

The Mold project, to be largely funded by the Welsh Government and Arts Council, will see the theatre refurbished and repaired, with the goal of making it more efficient. The project will involve reimagined public spaces, as well as dedicated facilities for health and well-being and community projects. Theatr Clwyd will remain open throughout the redevelopment.

A phased construction period is due to start in 2021 that will enable performances to continue on site as well as in a 300-seat pop-up theatre next to the main building.

Liam Evans Ford, executive director of Theatr Clwyd, said the project would “secure the future of Theatr Clwyd and safeguard its economic impact in North East Wales, worth over £7.7m annually”.

Colin Everett, chief executive at Flintshire County Council, said “The physical redevelopment of Theatr Clwyd is essential to bring the facility up to modern day standards and to enhance the visitor experience. The theatre complex will remain a central part of a redeveloped County Hall campus.”

The County Hall project saw approval in March last year for the demolition of parts of the Raikes Lane complex, with a programme to relocate 500 council staff to the former Unilever site in Ewloe starting last November.

Features of the theatre project include replacing the heating and ventilation system, with rainwater harvesting and photovoltaic panels also featuring. The surrounding area will be landscaped to include a therapeutic sensory garden and adventure playground. Some produce for a new café and restaurant may be grown on-site, while new trees will be planted.

The plans are available to view online. Consultation closes on Monday 23 September.