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Plans for Crucible Theatre investment move forwarD
Plans to transform Sheffield’s iconic Crucible Theatre are set to take a significant step forward this week, with councillors due to consider the next phase of design and development work for the landmark £45 million project. The report, due to be considered by Sheffield City Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee on 16 July, provides an update on progress since plans for a major investment in the Grade II listed venue were announced earlier this year. A feasibility study commissioned by the Council has now concluded that the Crucible’s capacity can be increased from its current 964 seats to around 1,500 seats when required through a significant, heritageconscious and sympathetic redevelopment. This is all while protecting the
qualities that have made the theatre internationally renowned. The study also identifies wider improvements that could modernise the visitor experience, including new hospitality facilities, a public-facing café, improved circulation throughout the building and increased toilet provision. Behind the scenes, improvements could also be made to support accessibility for performers, creatives staff and participants, as well as for the future operation of the venue. The committee report seeks support for approximately £1.3 million of development funding to enable the next stage of design work and the preparation of a full business case. The report also outlines further progress on the funding strategy for the
project, with officers confirming there is now a credible route to securing the full £45 million investment required. The proposed funding package includes contributions from public sector partners alongside private, philanthropic and strategic funding. Councillor Fran Belbin, Leader of Sheffield City Council said: “The Crucible is one of Sheffield’s most recognisable and important buildings. It is a world-class theatre, a major part of our cultural identity and an asset that attracts visitors from across the globe.” “Since announcing our ambitions earlier this year, a huge amount of work has taken place behind the scenes. This report demonstrates that there is a viable and deliverable way to upgrade the theatre, improve the audience experience and secure the
long-term future of the venue.” “The next phase of work will enable us to develop the detailed designs, strengthen the business case and continue discussions with funding partners as we work towards making this oncein-a-generation investment a reality.” Tom Bird, CEO of Sheffield Theatres added: “Sheffield Theatres are pleased that plans for the redevelopment of the Crucible continue to progress.” “Our exceptional theatre, where so many world-class productions have originated, will benefit hugely from this investment. It will allow for a more flexible auditorium while also increasing accessibility for our audiences, creatives, performers, participants and staff, it will also enable
us to become significantly more environmentally sustainable.” “We continue to work closely with Sheffield City Council and other partners to ensure the Crucible is redeveloped in a way that is sympathetic to this much-loved building while also being innovative and future-facing.” If approved, the next stage of work will include further design development, technical work and preparation for future planning and listed building consent applications, including appropriate consultation with stakeholders and the public. The proposed redevelopment would support the Crucible’s future as one of the UK’s leading producing theatres, strengthen Sheffield’s cultural offer and enhance the city’s ability to host major international events.
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