Theatre demolition to continue as upgrades approved

Work to demolish a town's cinema can continue after upgraded plans for the site were approved.

Telford Theatre, in Oakengates, is being fully demolished and replaced as the original building, dating back to the 1960s, has "significant structural defects".

The newly-approved plans from Telford and Wrekin Council include a new entrance foyer and box office, larger community and rehearsal spaces, bigger bar areas and additional toilets.

The council has also finalised the purchase of land next to the theatre's car park, which will create more than 30 extra spaces.

Contractors are due to begin site enabling works on Monday to extend barriers around the demolition site.

New facilities at the theatre will include a 766-seat auditorium, studio theatre, and community art room.

Twelve full-time jobs will be created as well as some part-time roles. About 100,000 visitors a year are expected.

The original plans for the development were upgraded and resubmitted for approval after the demolition of the previous theatre on the Oakengates site revealed there was extra space to expand into.

Lee Carter, leader of the council said: "We are delighted that the upgraded plans for the new theatre have now been approved enabling the remainder of the demolition works to begin, which in turn will pave the way for the new theatre rebuilding project.

"Telford Theatre is an eagerly anticipated project throughout Oakengates and wider community and it's one of our biggest investment projects across the Borough."

The project is part of a wider regeneration of the Oakengates area which includes refurbished shops and a paved events area outside the theatre.

Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.