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Plans have been submitted for an upgraded design for Telford Theatre, marking a major step forward in the redevelopment of one of the Borough’s key cultural venues.
The revised proposals follow the demolition of the former Oakengates nursery and auditorium, which opened up previously inaccessible parts of the site and enabled further investigations to take place. The findings have informed an enhanced design that will deliver improved facilities for audiences, performers and community groups.
The updated plans include a new entrance foyer and box office, larger community and rehearsal spaces, expanded bar areas and additional toilet facilities. The project will see the full demolition and replacement of the existing theatre building, which dates from the 1960s and had reached the end of its operational life.
As part of the redevelopment, the Council has agreed the relocation of the electricity substation currently located at the theatre site, allowing the next phase of the project to move forward. A contractor has also been appointed to deliver the construction works, subject to approval of the revised plans.
The new theatre will feature a 766 seat main auditorium, a dedicated studio theatre for community groups and smaller performances, a community art room, a transformed foyer and dining area, new bar facilities and modernised backstage spaces.
Once operational, the venue is expected to attract around 100,000 visitors each year across approximately 300 performances and events, while supporting 12 full time jobs alongside additional part time roles.
Alongside the theatre redevelopment, improvements continue within the surrounding Theatre Quarter. Temporary surfacing works have been completed to support residents, retailers and visitors, while creating a flexible theatre square events space. Permanent public realm improvements will be delivered in line with the theatre construction programme.
Telford Theatre on Tour is planning a programme of outdoor events and cinema screenings within theatre square, with details available through the Telford Theatre website.
The space will also host events funded through the Council's Pride in Our High Street programme and supported by Oakengates Town Council, helping to bring activity into the town centre while redevelopment progresses.
Businesses in Oakengates remain open throughout the regeneration programme, with visitors encouraged to continue supporting the town's independent businesses, shops and services.
Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, said: "We know that Telford Theatre is an eagerly anticipated project throughout the Oakengates and wider community and it’s one of our biggest investment projects across the Borough and full demolition will make way for a new theatre design which is even more exciting than the previous plans.
"We are committed to bringing plans for this exciting new facility to fruition and seeing the construction of the new building start to take shape as soon as possible once these plans for an upgraded design are approved.
"The theatre will attract visitors from far and wide and drive more footfall to Oakengates Town Centre."
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