Council responds to feedback on theatre plans

The theatre in Oakengates is due to undergo a £21m rebuild

Plans for a theatre rebuild have been tweaked after suggestions were made in a survey.

Telford Theatre in Oakengates is being redesigned and enlarged at a cost of £21m, and almost 600 people replied to a consultation to say what they would like to see in it.

In response, Telford and Wrekin Council said it had taken steps to improve leg room, add wheelchair spaces and increase the number of toilets.

It will also stage a number of shows elsewhere around the borough, following concerns over the length of time the theatre will be closed while the work is carried out.

Revised plans for the building will be submitted for approval in May and the majority of the theatre will be completely rebuilt.

The council said in response to concerns about leg room and access for wheelchair users that it would remove toe-boards from the seating.

It also promised wheelchair positions would be available at both stalls level and balcony level as part of the new design, offering a wider choice.

Some people raised worries about the number of toilets, because the current building only has 11, but the council said that would be increased to 68.

The council was asked for incentives such as loyalty schemes and said it would explore that possibility.

It also promised food and drink would be available all day, with pre-show dining.

The building work was likely to take between 18 and 24 months, the council said, but while it is closed there would be a series of music and plays throughout Telford and Wrekin’s parks, open spaces and community venues.