£8m refurbishment plans for Hinckley's Concordia Theatre approved

Plans for a major £8 million refurbishment of Hinckley's Concordia Theatre have been unanimously approved by borough councillors, paving the way for a major upgrade of the popular venue.

Hinckley's Concordia Theatre is set for a major transformation after Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council's planning committee gave the green light to ambitious refurbishment plans.

The proposals, which form part of the theatre's Project 2030 initiative, aim to modernise the building and ensure it can continue to serve the community for future generations.

The planned improvements include a new front entrance and box office area, an extension to the theatre's fly tower and significant changes to the auditorium's seating layout.

The ceiling above the seating area will also be removed to expose the building's original roof timbers.

Speaking to councillors, Andy Chamberlain, a trustee of the Hinckley Concordia Association, described the plans as exciting.

He said the theatre had been a "beacon of creativity" for almost 55 years, adding that modernising the facilities was important to safeguard its future.

The theatre has already raised £800,000 towards Project 2030, but much of the proposed work will depend on securing further funding and potential grants.

Keith Williams, director of design at Keith William Architects, said modernisation was critical and the improvements would significantly enhance comfort and the experience for audiences.

The plans received strong support from councillors, with committee chair Cllr Joyce Crooks describing the Concordia as the "jewel in the crown" for Hinckley.

Other members also praised the theatre's contribution to the town, with Cllr Richard Allen describing the proposals as bold and ambitious.

The planning committee voted unanimously to approve the scheme.