Council confirms £15m scaled-down revamp of theatre

The Octagon Theatre is regarded as a “key priority” in the council's plan

Somerset Council has reaffirmed commitment to a £15m upgrade of Yeovil's Octagon Theatre after approving a new cultural strategy.

The theatre shut in April 2023 and the council plans to upgrade the building and reopen it for the 2026 pantomime season.

The council announced in October 2023 it would be putting its £30m revamp on hold and said it is now pursuing a scaled-down redevelopment.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, portfolio holder for communities, housing and culture, said this was “a pivotal moment” for Somerset as a cultural destination.

The running of the building will pass to Yeovil Town Council once it reopens.

It has not been confirmed when the revised business case for the Octagon Theatre will come before the full council for final approval.

The council's commitment to the theatre was reaffirmed within its new cultural strategy for the next 10 years, which was approved by its executive committee in Taunton on 5 August.

Councillor Ros Wyke added: “I’m delighted that we’re now in a position to have a very robust, flexible cultural strategy which is very realistic given our financial position.”

The council is now pursuing a scaled-down redevelopment costing £15m

The strategy seeks to “ensure that culture is embedded into regeneration and major special projects, and that links are made with public art, place-making and improvements to the public realm”.

The Octagon Theatre is regarded as a priority which will “deliver a flagship venue for arts and culture services in Somerset”.

Ms Smith-Roberts said: “For over a decade, I think that culture has taken a back seat to many things that have happened.

“By bringing this forward, we’re marking a new era and building on the journey that we’ve created.

“This strategy demonstrates that we want be more than just about the finances. We want to enrich our county, and by doing it through culture we will leave a lasting legacy for people’s lives.”

Councillor Ros Wyke, portfolio holder for economic development, planning and assets, added: “I’m delighted that we’re now in a position to have a very robust, flexible cultural strategy which is very realistic given our financial position.”