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Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) has granted planning permission for significant improvements at Malvern Theatres as part of a £20m redevelopment project.
What is planned as part of the project?
We will build a world-class facility that attracts increased visitor numbers, boosting the local economy by £11m annually.
The new development, which will be park-side, includes: a modern 240-seat studio theatre to host more community work, a workshop space, and improvements to the Forum Theatre, making it more accessible and more comfortable.
As well as the modernisations to improve park access (easier stairs and new lift), there will also be a small amphitheatre for community use.
The auditorium plans will allow the theatre to do new and different types of work, including more community theatre, as well as additional classes and workshops.
Thanks to the improved park-side entrance, which will feature better spaced stairs, additional handrails, upgraded lighting, and an elevator, also, access to the theatre from the park will be greatly improved.
The Forum Theatre will also have improvements to make it more user-friendly, particularly for people with movement issues, including better wheelchair positions.
Two public consultation events were held to gather responses, and the plans were approved at a South Worcestershire Planning Meeting on 20 November 2024.
Who is involved in the project?
Malvern Theatres is operated by the charitable body Malvern Theatres Trust and is on a long-term lease from MHDC.
The project is being led by MHDC and funded by central government. The designs have been done by renowned theatre architect Burrell Foley Fischer.
There is £20m of capital development funding ringfenced to pay for this work, money that was allocated following a rigorous nationwide bidding process.
What has been done so far?
Phase one of the theatre’s redevelopment saw the creation of a new, vibrant entrance, disabled access to the theatre from Grange Road and a new ‘Changing Places’ toilet facility.
There is also a new studio hosting 21 classes a week, as well as youth drama productions and international cinema.
When will work start?
Work is expected to begin in January 2026.
pdf See the Malvern Theatres plans/information boards. (44.30 MB)
Find out more information about Malvern Theatres.
