Norwich Theatre has today announced the submission of a planning application to Norwich City Council for the redevelopment of Norwich Theatre Playhouse. The proposed scheme aims to preserve the unique character of the much-loved 300-seat venue while introducing essential modern upgrades and exciting new community spaces.
Originally conceived in 2019, the redevelopment was deferred due to the pandemic. Today’s submission marks a significant milestone in bringing these long-held visions to fruition.
Since opening in 1995 within a converted 200-year-old riverside maltings, Norwich Theatre Playhouse has become a cultural landmark, hosting award-winning comedy, international music, drama, family shows, and community events. This refurbishment, designed by architects Citizens Design Bureau, aims to improve the building’s accessibility, enhance its environmental sustainability, enhance the overall visitor experience, and create new opportunities for residents.
Key features of the proposal include:
- Improved accessibility for all – The installation of a passenger lift serving all floors, including staff areas, alongside increased toilet provision and level access throughout the front-of-house, backstage, and garden areas.
- Environmental sustainability – Replacing ageing systems with energy-efficient ones, including air-source heat pumps where possible and upgraded high-performance insulation to reduce the building’s carbon footprint.
- Enhanced visitor experience – Modernised public areas designed to improve visitor flow, complemented by a renewed outdoor garden space capable of hosting programmed community events.
- Community & Creative Growth – An increased indoor footprint featuring multi-purpose spaces for local artists, residents, and community groups, ensuring the venue remains a vibrant creative hub.
Stephen Crocker, Chief Executive & Creative Director at Norwich Theatre, said: “Norwich Theatre Playhouse has been a cherished cultural landmark for 30 years. A space championed by icons of the stage and, most importantly, by the people of Norwich and Norfolk. While its character remains timeless, the building itself requires vital care to ensure it can meet 21st-century needs.
“The submission of this planning application is just the start. We hope to begin construction as early as 2028, strengthening our position as a cultural destination where everyone feels welcome for generations to come.”
Full details of the planning application can be viewed on the Norwich City Council’s planning portal. While this submission outlines the core structural vision, Norwich Theatre will share further details later this year, including specific design elements and interior finishes, as well as next steps for fundraising to help bring this project to life.