Works to demolish the main theatre hall in Oakengates in preparation for a brand new state-of-the-art theatre are now underway.

The majority of the theatre is being completely rebuilt to transform both the exterior and interior of the building and provide a fantastic venue for residents and visitors to enjoy which will bring additional footfall to the town.

New facilities at the theatre will include: a larger main auditorium; modernised backstage facilities; a separate studio theatre to support community groups and smaller acts; a new community art room; a newly transformed foyer and theatre dining area; and a new public bar with upgraded amenities.

A series of pre works have already been completed including the demolition of the old Oakengates nursery and a soft stripping of the main auditorium.

In addition, a structural separation has also taken place between the old library, which will remain as a separate building, and the theatre building so it can be demolished safely.

Now Garvey Demolition will demolish the main theatre hall which has stood at the centre of Oakengates for decades.

The visitor experience will also be enhanced with new fully accessible facilities and a front of house hospitality offer.

Once reopen the Theatre will also compliment the investment into Limes Walk which is providing new homes, retail units and a new outdoor market provision as well as a new dedicated library at 6-8 Limes Walk.

Telford & Wrekin Council has received funding from central government and topped up the total funding investment to deliver the project.

Telford & Wrekin Council is investing £300 million into a range of new developments across Telford and Wrekin in Oakengates, at Station Quarter in Telford Town Centre and Wellington which are all part of the Investing in Telford and Wrekin programme.

The Council is committed to making the Borough a better place to live, work, learn and socialise through these high-profile investment projects.

Other investment in Oakengates includes the transformation of the 1960s shopping precinct into modern shop units with residential apartments above.

Telford Theatre will offer a more diverse cultural programme with the expansion of the main auditorium and new studio theatre which will benefit existing theatre patrons and attract new audiences from locally and beyond.

The Council is also committed to ensuring that free parking remains in Oakengates and across Borough towns where parking is currently free.

You can find out more about the Telford Theatre project here: Telford & Wrekin Council | Telford Theatre