Work to revamp Bradford's iconic Playhouse approved
The building is home to the city's annual Panto
PLANS to refurbish a Bradford building with “considerable social and cultural significance” to the city have been approved – and a campaign has now been launched to help fund the work.
Based in Little Germany, Bradford Playhouse has been at the heart of Bradford’s cultural scene since the 1930s.
Bradford playwright JB Priestley was president of the theatre from 1932 until his death.
It hosts numerous performances throughout the year, including its popular annual pantomime.
Now plans to make the art deco building more accessible, including adding a lift and better disabled access, as well as giving the building a makeover, have been approved by Bradford Council.
Funding for the work has been pledged by several different organisations, and a Crowdfunder to raise a further £10,000 begins today.
It is hoped that the work will allow the theatre, based on Chapel Street and just off Leeds Road, to welcome more guests to the theatre during Bradford’s year as City of Culture.
External works will include a new doorway, the removal of metal additions from the 1990s and a repaint of the building – essentially restoring much of its 1930s design.
Internally there will be a new washroom and accessible toilets, and a lift from the street level to the bar, box office and accessible seating.
Commenting on the planning application, Bradford Council’s Conservation Office Jon Ackroyd said: “The playhouse has considerable social and cultural significance. It is identified as a key unlisted building in the conservation area and makes a valuable contribution to the built and cultural heritage of the city.
“The removal of metal additions installed in the 1990s and application of a new scheme of decoration will enhance the building. The colour scheme is bold but relevant to the Art Deco style.
“The proposed works will support the viability of the playhouse, assisting its retained presence as a key component of the cultural and visual character of the conservation area.
“The new entrance and shutter causes minor visual harm but is offset by benefits to the continued operation of the playhouse, and in enabling it to be enjoyed by a wider audience.”
A statement from the playhouse says: “We are thrilled to announce that planning permission has been secured for a transformative accessibility project.
“This initiative will ensure the playhouse becomes a fully inclusive venue. The project will significantly improve access to key areas of the theatre, making it a welcoming space for all.”
“For nearly a century, the playhouse has been a place where creativity thrives, hosting countless performances that have entertained and inspired generations.
“Now, the theatre is embarking on an exciting new chapter – one that ensures accessibility for all, without compromising the venue’s historic charm.
“Bradford Playhouse is proud to be working with Bradford 2025 on this transformative project. The team at 2025 has been instrumental in developing a scheme that meets the needs of the theatre and its audiences.”
Daniel Bates, executive director of Bradford City of Culture 2025 said: “We have been working with the team at Bradford Playhouse for the last 12 months on a scheme to improve access to the playhouse, and we are thrilled that they have now gained planning permission for the works.
“We are now working hard with the playhouse to secure the funding to make the improvements, so the playhouse will be accessible in 2025 – another great City of Culture legacy.”
Bradford Playhouse has today launched a Crowdfunding campaign to raise £10,000 to help fund the works. Running for eight weeks, it will directly support the planned accessibility upgrades.
Megan Wilson, director of the Bradford Playhouse, said: “We want to ensure that every member of our community can experience the joy of live theatre.
“This project is about breaking down barriers and making the arts accessible to everyone. We’re asking our audiences, supporters, and the wider community to help us make this happen.”
Niall Fleming, a volunteer technician at the playhouse, said: “This project is very exciting.
“It’s going to make such a big difference to our audience and volunteers. It will be great to welcome even more people to the playhouse.”