Ipswich's Regent Theatre set for £3.45 million revamp
The building opened back in 1929
Last updated 6th Dec 2024
A major £3.45 million revamp of a Suffolk town’s theatre building has been recommended for approval ahead of a final decision.
Next Wednesday, members of Ipswich’s planning committee will be deciding on the council’s own proposals for a revamp of Regent Theatre, in St Helen’s Street.
The building was built in 1929 and worked initially as a cine-variety theatre before it was bought in 1991 by Ipswich Borough Council (IBC), and restored into a live performance venue in the same year.
The new plans were submitted to planners in September and included building a new lift tower, WC block, and glazing within a covered walkway to create an alternative entrance with a security shutter.
Several alterations and renovations were proposed to the front-of-house areas of the theatre, the foyer, the crush bar and the first-floor lounge bar.
If approved, the principle entrance area would include a new ‘wall of fame’ meant to create a pleasant entrance.
The full restoration was given a £3.45 million price tag by councillors in July, paid for by increasing tickets above £10 by 20p, taking the restoration levy from an already-existing £1.50 to £1.70.
The application received no comments from residents but a statement submitted on behalf of the Suffolk Preservation Society (SPS) said the plans were inspiring and thoughtful.
It read: “The proposed refurbishment imaginatively addresses issues of disabled access and the upgrading of visitor facilities, and will significantly enhance the visitor experience, thereby ensuring that the building has a viable and sustainable future.
“The SPS congratulates Ipswich BC on the proposed scheme and wishes it every success through the planning and delivery phases.”
If approved on Wednesday, the council expects the work to be complete by December 2025.