Wigan's Royal Court Theatre on King Street has taken a major step towards reopening after securing new investment from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. The Grade II listed building will receive part of the £3.7m funding Wigan Council is set to receive to support the borough's economy and community developments.
The theatre closed in 1974 and has since been used as a bingo hall, nightclub and bar. It has already received £1.1m in funding for building works to protect and restore the structure.
Next Steps for King Street
The latest funding will allow the theatre to open for community and cultural use. Plans include creating a temporary 250-seat performance space to host pilot productions, events and cultural activities. This will help test the building's potential as a future home for arts, culture and community use.
Cllr Dane Anderton, cabinet portfolio holder for economic development and regeneration at Wigan Council, said the theatre is "one of Wigan's most recognisable heritage assets".
"This latest funding allows us to take the next step by opening the building for community and cultural use, helping us understand how it can once again become a vibrant destination for residents and visitors," he said.
Historic Building
The 3,000-seat theatre first opened in 1886 and hosted many music hall performers in its early years, including a teenage Charlie Chaplin in 1903.
The venue is expected to play a central role in a wider vision for King Street and the emerging Station Gateway area.
