News and Events
National Theatre granted permission for £70 million redevelopment
30th Sep 2010
Consent for the £70 million scheme, which has been designed by Haworth Tomkins, was given at a council planning meeting yesterday evening.
The project, which is called NT Future, is intended to “open up” the Grade II* listed venue, which was originally designed by Denys Lasdun in 1976. This will include creating a new education and participation space, refurbishing the Cottesloe auditorium and increasing its capacity, as well creating new production facilities, refurbishing foyers and external areas and opening up the front of the building to passing trade.
NT executive director Nick Starr commented: “We warmly welcome Lambeth Council’s decision to grant planning consent for the NT Future project, which is a critical hurdle in its realisation. The scheme is both sensitive and transformational; Haworth Tompkins’ designs display deep respect for Denys Lasdun’s building while being informed by several generations of theatremaking artists. It is true to the National Theatre’s founding spirit as a popular institution, as exemplified by our Travelex £10 Tickets, live broadcasts to cinemas and Sunday openings, and furthers our constant aim to be as welcoming and accessible as possible.
“Fundraising will now begin in earnest. It is a challenging time to raise money, but we believe that the combination of our commitment to the National Theatre’s future and the generosity and the vision of our supporters, will enable this vital project to proceed.”
For more on this story, see next week’s print edition of The Stage.
Source: The Stage
