New Everyman secures planning approval
24th August 2010
Liverpool City Council has today given planning approval for the new Everyman theatre on Hope Street. Council Leader Cllr Joe Anderson endorsed the new design describing it as “a vital redevelopment for the City’s future. The Everyman is a real gem in Liverpool’s cultural life and while it will have a new-look it will retain its unique spirit.”
A very positive report was submitted to the Planning Committee describing the new Everyman as retaining “the character and charm of the existing theatre whilst providing vastly enhanced facilities that will make a positive cultural contribution", noting that the project will be of “benefit to the local economy and provide enhanced employment opportunities".
The planning application was submitted in May at which time CABE (Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment) described the design, by prominent theatre architect Haworth Tompkins, as “an exemplar in all aspects of its design.”
The designs include new incarnations of the Everyman’s dynamic and inclusive 400-seat ‘thrust’ stage auditorium, legendary basement Bistro and iconic Everyman sign. These will be complemented by vital facilities it currently lacks, many of which will also serve its sister theatre, the Playhouse. These will include a Youth and Community Space for the theatres’ vast and growing work with education and community groups; rehearsal space, workshops and offices for production staff; and a hub for writers to develop their work.
The £28m redevelopment is scheduled to go on site in 2011 so that the new Everyman will open in 2013. Since the recent announcement £2.4m Northwest Regional Development Agency funds would no longer be available to support the project, the Everyman management team has been engaged in positive discussions with all project stakeholders to close this gap and maintain the quality and momentum of the project. All remain fully committed to making it happen. Executive Director Deborah Aydon was delighted with the news, "This is a fantastic endorsement by the City Council and a very positive signal to our stakeholders and funding partners. It will be a great boost to ongoing negotiations and help maintain the strong momentum of the Everyman redevelopment.”
Artistic Director Gemma Bodinetz said "Over the summer we have been holding public presentations and drop in sessions, continuing the consultation with the many people who care passionately about their Everyman. We have been overwhelmed by the positive response to the new design and with the desire that this greener, more accessible and inclusive vision of the Everyman and Bistro becomes a reality in the near future.”
Supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England
The Everyman and Playhouse is supported by Arts Council England
The Everyman and Playhouse thanks Liverpool City Council for its financial support
For further information email ev4everyone@everymanplayhouse.com
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