Curtain rises on £1m scheme to replace 120-year-old theatre roof

A £1M scheme to replace Harrogate Theatre’s 120-year-old roof is set to get under way next month after councillors agreed funding for the project.

Cabinet members on Harrogate Borough Council – which owns the Grade II-listed building – agreed to support the scheme set to start on May 3 when a huge temporary structure will be erected over the entire building before the ageing roof is stripped back.

The council has carried out fire safety works and the project will also include repairs to windows, brickwork and guttering.

Speaking at a meeting, Jonathan Dunk, the executive officer for major projects at the council, said it was “likely” that workers would become aware of the need for further repairs once the roof is removed and that costs could overrun.

“This is a significant investment in Harrogate Theatre which is a key asset that supports the town and will contribute to the council’s economic recovery plan,” he said.

“Like any construction project, particularly on a building of this age and complexity, there is a risk of programme and cost overrun. We have done all the correct work and will continue to engage with all parties and take the right professional advice to understand these risks.

“We will bring a further report back to cabinet on July 21 when we have more detail on the condition of the roof and impact on cost.”

Due to the disruption the works will cause, the theatre will need to close for the duration of the project which is scheduled for completion at the end of September.

But David Bown, the chief executive of the theatre trust, said it still plans to host shows at other venues in summer, possibly including the town’s Royal Hall, Harrogate Convention Centre and community centres.

The theatre has remained closed throughout the Covid outbreak, with Mr Bown warning that it had become unviable while social distancing measures are in place.

It has received almost £650,000 in grants and also raised more than £100,000 during a fundraising appeal to help it survive the pandemic.

Councillor Stanley Lumley said it was important for Harrogate to “support and protect” the theatre and other cultural centres.