Library image – Entertainment
On Thursday 22 August, Council Cabinet members will consider a proposal to reallocate £2.8m of Margate Town funding to the Theatre Royal in Margate. This is to support the ambitious vision to conserve, restore and modernise both the Grade II* Listed theatre and 19 Hawley Square.
In March 2021, £2.2m of Margate Town Deal funding was allocated to the Theatre Royal. Since then, an ambitious new vision has been set. The aim of the project is to create a nationally significant performing arts hub in Margate. The draft plans for the Theatre Royal are available on the council’s website.
Cllr Ruth Duckworth, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Property, said:
“While the council is committed to refurbishing the Margate Theatre Royal and 19 Hawley Square, we have always recognised that the project is ambitious, and would rely on securing significant funding from other sources.
“Following the introduction of the government’s Simplification Pathfinder Pilot in December 2023, there are opportunities to reallocate funding to the projects that will deliver the best outcomes for our communities.
“We are confident that reallocating funding will help us to achieve our ambition of bringing the Theatre Royal and 19 Hawley Square back to life, with an exciting arts venue that will bring job opportunities for local people. It will also ensure that other planned Margate Town Deal projects can be delivered.
“We understand that there may be people who will be disappointed that this funding is being reallocated, but the council is committed to supporting the projects that will have the biggest impact on creating jobs and opportunities for the future.”
Further information on the Margate Town Deal regeneration programme can be viewed on the council’s website.