Work to restart on stalled Telford Theatre project next week

Work is set to restart at the site of the stalled Telford Theatre project, after the refurbishment project ground to a halt following the discovery of structural issues.

It’s now been more than two years since Telford Theatre in Oakengates closed as redevelopment work on the town centre got underway.

Previously, it was envisioned that the new and improved theatre would reopen this winter, but the construction site fell quiet after the initial demolition works.

Then, in August, fresh plans were put back before planning officers, with documents revealing that a part of the building which fronts Limes Walk was “not structurally sound” and needed to be demolished.

The new plan included some other design amendments, which were said to be required “in order to ensure viability, buildability and achieve where possible design enhancement”.

Those plans were approved at the end of October and now, Telford & Wrekin Council have confirmed work will resume on Monday, November 9.

Initial work by Bowmer and Kirkland will involve extending the current hoarding before demolition work begins.

Telford & Wrekin Council have also confirmed that they have finalised the purchase of land adjacent to the Telford Theatre car park in Oakengates which will create in excess of 30 new, free additional parking spaces.

The local authority said plans are being submitted to redevelop this area, creating extra parking for theatre goers and visitors and businesses who are based in, or visit, the town centre.

Councillor Lee Carter, Telford & Wrekin Council Leader, said: “We are delighted that the upgraded plans for the new theatre have now been approved enabling the remainder of the demolition works to begin, which in turn will pave the way for the new theatre rebuilding project.

"Telford Theatre is an eagerly anticipated project throughout the Oakengates and wider community and it’s one of our biggest investment projects across the borough.

"This new theatre design, which is even more exciting than the previous plans, will attract visitors from far-and-wide and drive more footfall to Oakengates Town Centre.”