Historic theatre restoration project wins planning approval

Two planning applications for the full refurbishment of Derby’s Guildhall Theatre have been approved by Derby City Council.

Last week, the council’s planning control committee passed plans for its renovation, marking a significant milestone in bringing the historic venue back into use.

Under the plans, the Grade II listed building will be repaired and transformed into a modern, accessible venue for those who use the building, and their audiences, while recognising its heritage.

Features such as the ornate plaster ceiling and wooden panelling in the auditorium will be retained, while new retractable seating will be installed to give more flexible options for performances and to improve audience comfort. 

The Guildhall Theatre will also have a new downstairs cafe bar area, improved accessibility and toilet provision, and a rear extension to house a goods lift.

Upstairs, the balcony will be remodelled to provide more comfortable seating with improved views.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council and cabinet member for regeneration, strategy and policy, 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.”

The Guildhall Theatre closed its doors in 2019 due to issues with the condition of the roof and ceiling in the auditorium.

With funding of £10 million from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the building will be fully refurbished and improved to become a vibrant venue, complementing the city centre’s recent regeneration projects such as Derby Market Hall, Vaillant Live, and the proposed Market Place redevelopment. 

Until now, work has been taking place behind the scenes with the necessary consent in place.

At the beginning of the year, listed building consent – a process required for alterations to Grade II listed buildings – was granted to enable the next phase of surveys and design to be carried out.

Nadine added: “With the help of £10 million 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.”