HPA have been working on behalf of Lancaster Footlights Trust to devise a scheme for the repair of the façade of Lancaster Grand Theatre. The project is being supported by grant funding from the Lancaster Heritage Action Zone, a collaborative regeneration scheme run in partnership between Historic England and Lancaster City Council.
Located on St Leonards Gate, within the Lancaster Conservation Area, the property is designated as a Grade II listed building. The building first opened its doors as ‘The Theatre, Lancaster’ in 1782 however, changes in ownership and a devastating fire have subjected the building to numerous alterations during both the 19th and 20th centuries. As such, it has been important for HPA to understand the history of the building so that repairs and redecorations can be carried out successfully.
The Lancaster Grand Theatre is a thriving community asset, and its refurbishment will deliver a key project within the Canal Quarter Regeneration Area which seeks to revitalise a 16-acre site within Lancaster city centre.
Following on from the completion of these repairs, Lancaster Footlights Trust has aspirations for a new extension to be erected which will include a new entrance foyer.
“This is an exciting project for both Lancaster Grand and the City as the building plays such a vital role within the local community. Our investigations so far have revealed that the façade of the building is particularly important not only because of its grand architectural form, but also due to the materials that this is made from. We are looking forward to getting the repair works underway to help revitalise this special building and support its ongoing success”. – Jess Barrow, Heritage and Planning Consultant, HPA.
