SIGNIFICANT plans for improvements at Malvern Theatres have been given the greenlight as the district council granted planning permission.
The works will include a modern 240-seat studio theatre to host more community led theatre projects, a small recording studio, a small ampitheatre and essential upgrades to the sites Priory Park entrance.
The new auditorium plans will allow the theatre to do new and different types of work, including community theatre productions, as well as additional classes and workshops.
Access to the theare from Priory Park will be greatly improved thanks to better spaced stairs, additional handrails, upgraded lighting, and an elevator.
The Forum Theatre will also have improvements to make it more user-friendly, particularly for people with movement issues, including better wheelchair positions.
Councillor John Gallagher, portfolio holder for resources at Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC), said: “We are so pleased the plans for the new development at Malvern Theatres have been approved.
“This will mean further investment in this wonderful facility which will expand access to the arts, improve wellbeing, increase education and employment opportunities, as well as provide a boost to the tourism and economy within the area.”
This next phase of work is due to start in summer 2025 and the theatre will remain open throughout the build, with the Festival Theatre, Cinema, and Studio One, all operating as normal.
Phase two follows follows on from the recently added Studio One, which is already at capacity since opening just over a year ago, and the accompanying Changing Place, a lifeline for people with severe additional needs.
The project is being led by Malvern Hills District Council and funded by £20 million of central government investment.
Fred Moroni, executive director of Malvern Theatres, said: “We are thrilled that MHDC has chosen to progress this ambitious project.
“It will transform Malvern Theatres into a nationally significant centre of excellence for the arts.
“We look forward to welcoming even more people for workshops and classes, as well as hosting community theatre in the new purpose-built auditorium.”
