Work on the £9.5m upgrade of a Liverpool city region theatre begins with its programme of events continuing as normal. Tony McDonough reports

Work has started on the £9.5m upgrade of the Brindley Theatre in Runcorn.

Main contractor on the Brindley Theatre Enhancement project is Krol Corlett Construction. This is part of the wider Reconnecting Runcorn which is made up of eight separate projects.

Funded by Government and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority cash, the Brindley transformation will include a large cafe-restaurant, relocated library and a civic space on the Brindley green, providing a more accessible and visible cultural destination.

During the building works, access to the Brindley is via the Terrace Cafe and there is new signage around the building and adjoining roads to assist visitors to the building.

Free parking for the Brindley is now on the former Crosville car park (next to Costa), opposite the Brindley, adjacent to the Bridgewater Canal. People can access the car park is via the A533 Bridgewater Expressway.

Cllr Paul Nolan, Halton Council’s portfolio holder for Cultural and Leisure Services, said: “It’s great to see that work is now underway on what heralds an exciting future for the Brindley.

“Since opening in 2004, the Brindley Theatre has become a key asset in the borough and has steadily increased its customer base. 

“The Brindley is an award-winning theatre and, by transforming it into a Cultural Hub, will give the community even more reasons to visit.”

All of the Brindley’s planned events will continue as normal and the building work will not have an impact on the quality of the performances. This project is expected to be completed by June 2026.

Dan Tebay, managing director Krol Corlett, added: “We are incredibly proud to be the appointed main contractor for this transformative project as part of the ‘Reconnecting Runcorn’ Town Investment Plan.

READ MORE: £15m Sir Ken Dodd Happiness Centre wins approval

READ MORE: Halton venture secures deal with global biotech

“The Brindley has long been a cherished landmark, and our team is excited to bring this ambitious scheme to life.

“We specialise in enhancing iconic cultural hubs and to play our part in this collaboration that will help bring more visitors, boosting the local economy and the town’s appeal as a prime destination, is a real honour.”