Multimillion-pound plans for Reading's Hexagon Theatre approved

The £13.7m upgrade includes a new extension and entrance

A "much-loved" Berkshire theatre will benefit from a multimillion-pound upgrade after plans were approved for the project.

The Hexagon Theatre in Reading will be revitalised with a new 300-capacity studio auditorium, in addition to rehearsal space.

The overall scheme is expected to cost £13.7m.

Following planning approval, work on the site could begin as early as this summer.

Jackie Yates, chief executive of the council, said the theatre had been a "much-loved" venue since it first opened in 1977, and it had played a "special role in very many people's lives".

A new rehearsal space will be added to the theatre complex

She said: "We want the Hexagon to continue to remain a pivotal venue for Reading residents and the wider area in the future, and this important project will secure that."Access to the arts and culture plays an important part in people's lives. Having such a versatile and accessible venue will enable even more residents to enjoy it."

Built in 1977, the Hexagon, Reading's largest arts venue, has struggled to be sufficiently modernised because of its age and condition.

The project can go ahead after the council won £19.1m-worth of government Levelling Up funding to upgrade The Hexagon and bring the Central Library into the council's civic offices in Bridge Street.

The multi-purpose arts venue opened in 1977

The revamp is expected to cost £13.7m, with the council match-funding the upgrade with money taken from its capital budget.

Improvements include a new cafe, bar, rooftop terrace, and rehearsal and workshop rooms for community use.

The theatre will remain open, with its regular schedule continuing during the transformation.

The site falls into the wider transformation of the area known as the Minster Quarter in which the council plans to build 618 homes.

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