THE Mowlem theatre and cinema will be in the dark for the next few weeks while work is carried out on a £50,000 project to install a new lift.
It marks the first phase of a quarter-of-a-million-pound revamp of the 1960s building and follows new EU regulations requiring all public buildings to be accessible to wheelchairs.
Annual maintenance works are being carried out at the same time but the box office and community room will remain open until work is completed in March.
Future changes include enclosing the open-air arcade at the front of the building to create a place for artwork displays and a disabled toilet.
How much work is carried out depends on the amount of funds raised and future plans include updating the theatre's air conditioning system and replacing or refurbishing the cinematograph and theatre production equipment.
About 60,000 people a year use the theatre, which is entirely self-funding.
If you would like to make a donation or help with fund-raising, contact the Mowlem on 01929 422239.
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