Funding secured to kick-start bold renovation project for Pavilion Theatre, Worthing.
Thursday, March 28, 2019
Worthing Theatres have secured £48,500 from the Government’s Coastal Revival Fund in order to kick-start a five year renovation programme for Worthing’s iconic building, the Pavilion Theatre.
We have received the following press release;
28/03/2019
News Release – for immediate release
Funding secured to kick-start bold renovation project for Pavilion Theatre, Worthing
Worthing Theatres have secured £48,500 from the Government’s Coastal Revival Fund in order to kick-start a five year renovation programme for Worthing’s iconic building, the Pavilion Theatre. This major injection of funding for coastal communities works towards supporting innovative businesses, protecting historic buildings, new museums and restoration of much-loved coastal heritage sites.
Worthing Theatres bid along with another 26 projects were announced 23 March and are forecast collectively to support over 15,000 jobs, and attract up to £40 million in additional investment from public and private sector sources.
The funding for Worthing will enable a feasibility study of the Pavilion Theatre and launch a five year master plan to renovate this stunning 1920’s building to its former glory whilst also allowing for subtle modernisation with digital signage and promotion on the exterior of the building. The results of the study will enable Worthing Theatres to review their current model and focus on a renovation strategy. The long term objective will be to restore Worthing’s most cherished building by increasing capacity, adding balcony and raked seating.
Initial plans for the Pavilion Theatre include redecoration of the external fascia including digital displays, improvements to the box office and the addition of an accessible toilet off the auditorium. Currently the theatre doesn’t have its name on the main building exterior, the team intends to rectify this making it clear and visible to all visitors..
The funding comes at an important time for the theatres with Adur and Worthing Council having formally approved plans on the 5th March 2019 for both the theatres and the museum to run as an independent organisation from 2020.
Head of Culture, Adur & Worthing Council, Amanda O’Reilly said:
“We are thrilled to have been selected, this will provide a much needed boost for our stunning Pavilion Theatre and lay the groundwork for many more developments within this venue. I am determined to ensure the development of our theatres and museum continues and to create a cultural economy that works for the people of this town as we prepare to become independent.”
Coastal Communities Minister, Jake Berry MP said:
“The world-class attractions and innovative businesses supported by the Coastal Communities Fund and the Coastal Revival Fund will increase tourism, encourage investment and ensure people thrive up and down the Great British Coast.”