Theatre embarks on work to improve accessibility

An artist’s impression of the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre after renovations

Work has begun to transform a theatre in Surrey with the help of a £2.9m council grant.

The Yvonne Arnaud theatre, in Guildford, is using the money to revamp the foyer, entrance and front of house areas with a focus on accessibility.

The building will also benefit from an accessible lift and toilets.

Tim Oliver, leader of Surrey County Council, said: "We know exactly how important it is for people to have access to arts and culture."

The theatre said the project would:

• improve accessibility throughout the front of house areas

• create a multipurpose accessible community room

• remodel the theatre’s public spaces to make them fit-for-purpose

• replace outdated electrical and mechanical services with energy efficient alternative

Deputy council leader Denise Turner-Stewart said it was the biggest Your Fund Surrey award to date.

"We are really excited about the improvements this will bring to our communities locally and across Surrey," she said.

Joanna Read, director and chief executive of the theatre, said the work would "transform our iconic theatre into a cultural community hub, improving our accessibility for everyone.

"We look forward to welcoming our audiences back in the autumn and revealing the improvements through the next 12 months."

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