Plans for theatre's £3.45m revamp move forward

The refurbishment of Ipswich Regent Theatre should be completed by December 2025

Plans to fund the improvement and refurbishment of a 95-year-old theatre have been approved by a council.

Ipswich Regent Theatre first opened in 1929 and is the largest theatre in the East of England.

During an executive council meeting on Tuesday, the proposed £3.45m budget was approved, with an increase of 20 pence in the theatre's ticket Restoration Levy expected to be introduced.

Jane Riley, portfolio holder for culture and customers at Ipswich Borough Council, said that while the work was still subject to planning consent, it would ensure a "cultural asset" was protected.

"While much of the work will focus on modernising the building and its facilities, as well as significantly improving the accessibility of the venue.. the project will also ensure this important cultural asset is protected and its original features are restored," she said.

Ms Riley added that the executive authorised for the submission of the planning application and the procurement of a main contractor to deliver the work.

She hoped the work would begin in spring 2025 with completion expected that December.

The work would see a canopy over the front doors improved while the foyer area would be opened up and refurbished.

The accessible entrance would be modified, the auditorium toilets refurbished - and a lift and accompanying lobby for it introduced.

Customers previously commented that they were unhappy with the queues at the bars and so new, larger ones will be built.