Wolverhampton Grand Theatre unveils expansion plans

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre has revealed plans to build a 200-seat performance space.

The new theatre, designed by Keith Williams Architects, will be built next door to its current home on the site of a former post office in the city centre.

Its working title is the Green Room and will be a permanent structure attached to the existing 1,200-seat theatre.

A public consultation is being held on the proposals, which are being presented as an exhibition at the theatre until October 26.

Chief executive and artistic director at the Wolverhampton Grand Adrian Jackson said: “There is a vision to make Lichfield Street the arts hub of Wolverhampton city centre and although the theatre already contributes massively to the local economy, there is so much more we can achieve in the community, for education and cultural enrichment.”

Jackson added that he plans to use the space for work with Wolverhampton University, colleges, schools and community groups as well for performances and music gigs.

John Reynolds, the council’s cabinet member for city economy, said: “This is a bold move by Wolverhampton Grand Theatre to bring a major uplift to the city centre’s entertainment offer.

“I would urge people to go along to the public consultation event and take a look at these ambitious plans.”

A full planning application will be submitted to the council in November.

A spokesman for the theatre said he was unable to confirm further details or the total cost of the project until after the consultation.