Newcastle Tyne Theatre can look to the future

8th July 2010

The Victorian Journal Tyne Theatre is now off the at-risk register in what is a milestone step towards securing the future of the building.

Three years ago the Tyne Theatre and Opera House Preservation Trust took over the building in Westgate Road, which is leased to operators SMG Europe. With the help of a grant of £105,000 from English Heritage and backing from the city council, the trust has carried out repair work on the roof and drainage system.

It has also restored the proscenium arch.

Brian Debnam of the Tyne Theatre and Opera House Preservation Trust, said: “The theatre is a unique and important building and we have managed to protect and weatherproof the fabric of the building which will prolong its continuing use as a vibrant centre for entertainment in the centre of Newcastle.”

But he said that major investment would be needed in the next five to 10 years to maintain the building as a working theatre. This would include the complete refurbishment of the auditorium and the installation of lifts.

There were also long-term plans to open an exhibition centre on the history of the building and theatre architecture in Newcastle.

Source: Journal Live