The project will improve accessibility with the building and provide more space for the theatre鈥檚 projects, both on and off-stage. It will involve demolishing large sections and rebuilding around the core of the theatre鈥檚 auditorium.
The scope also includes refurbishing the existing theatre, studio, foyer, back of house and administration areas and creating two multi-purpose studio spaces for rehearsals, participation activities and performances.聽 The project will also provide improved audience comfort with air conditioning and new seats.
The 拢8.5m contract was procured through Scape Group鈥檚 major works framework.
Willmott Dixon is working with architect Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios and project manager Gardiner & Theobald.
Elizabeth Newman, artistic director of the theatre, said, 鈥淭he artistic and social benefits to Bolton for the project will be incredible, as it will enable the theatre to expand its community and artistic provision and therefore our reach in the coming years. The aim of reimagining our building is to ensure accessibility to all including audiences, participants and artists.鈥�
The contract follows Willmott Dixon鈥檚 redevelopment of Bolton Albert Halls, a Grade two listed building which formed part of a wider town centre master plan to encourage more visitors and investment into the town centre.聽 The company is also on site nearby building Horwich Leisure Centre, also for Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council.
Refurbishing civic buildings has been a rich seam for Willmott Dixon lately. The company is working at Darlington Civic Centre, Plymouth鈥檚 History Centre and the east wing at Alexandra Palace.聽 In June, it was also chosen to refurbish the Old Admiralty building to create a new head office for the Department of Education.聽 And last year the company helped to bring the former Commonwealth Institute in Kensington back to life as the Design Museum.
Anthony Dillon, managing director of Willmott Dixon in the north, said: 鈥淲e are delighted to be back in Bolton as part of the team that will restore such a cultural landmark. Redeveloping buildings to create a lasting benefit for communities is a specialism we are proud of at Willmott Dixon.鈥�
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