Plans to refurbish Guildhall Theatre approved

Plans to refurbish the Guildhall Theatre in Derby have been given the go-ahead.

Derby City Council's planning control committee approved two planning applications on Thursday for the renovation of the Grade II listed building.

The venue, which dates back to the 1820s, closed in January 2019 due to issues with the condition of the roof and ceiling in the auditorium.

According to the Labour-run council, the building will be repaired and transformed into a "modern, accessible venue".

Derby City Council announced £24.55m restoration plans in 2024, with £10m being allocated towards the project by the government.

The council said features such as the ornate plaster ceiling and wooden panelling in the auditorium would be retained, while retractable seating would be installed.

It added the theatre would also have a downstairs bar area as well as improved accessibility and toilet provision.

The authority said the balcony would also be remodelled to provide more comfortable seating with improved views.

Council leader Nadine Peatfield said: "The Guildhall has served the people of Derby for generations and is an integral part of Derby's cultural heritage.

"The approval of the planning applications brings us a step closer to bringing this iconic building back into use.

"With the help of £10m of government funding we're taking the opportunity to create a high-quality venue that will serve our communities for generations to come and be something we can all be proud of."

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