Call out for major work at Empire

THE Toowoomba Regional Council has put the call-out to all contractors wanting to complete the most significant part of the Empire Theatre’s ambitious $4 million refurbishment.

The council released the tender this week for the second stage of the massive renovation job, which would include the replacement of carpet and seating in the main auditorium and improvements to the north bar and foyer areas.

Cr Geoff McDonald said the value of the tender would be known when a contractor was found.

“This refurbishment will allow for increased patron comfort with the seat replacement, additional female toilet facilities provided and improvements to accessibility during the theatre interval times,” he said.

“The value of the tender will

‘‘ THE TIMEFRAME FOR COMPLETION IS MARCH 2019. CR GEOFF MCDONALD

be determined once a contract is signed with the successful bidder for these services.

“The timeframe for completion is March 2019.”

The first stage of the refurbishment, for which the released in December last year, would create a new lounge bar and reheat kitchen on the first level.

Empire Theatres chairman Andrew Wielandt described the venue last year as “Australia’s best regional theatre” and was looking forward to work getting under way.