£10m funding boost in bid to expand Octagon Theatre

blackmorevaleMarch 28, 20210 Comment0

A project to turn the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil into a popular cultural polestar is £10million closer to reaching the £23.1million needed for its redevelopment after the Government announced the funds in its recent Budget.

The scheme to expand and develop The Octagon Theatre includes a fly tower, new circle to increase seating capacity from 622 to 900, building two cinemas, studios and a community Café Hub and separate restaurant areas to underwrite the total costs of the theatre build. Fundraising and grant applications made by The Octagon will continue apace.

South Somerset District Council’s Arts and Entertainment manager Adam Burgan said: “We were absolutely thrilled to see the £10 million funding confirmed in the Chancellor’s budget. With this money, plus the recommendation from District Executive to move the decision to Full Council, we are hopeful that will we get over the final hurdle and start to make our final plans that we can share with the public for their views on the redevelopment of The Octagon Theatre.”

The Octagon Theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1974, attracting thousands of visitors with a diverse range of artists from big name comedians, classical music and opera to rock and folk music to the very best in variety, plays, ballet and the annual blockbuster pantomime. And local talent is celebrated as the theatre plays host to the many local community groups.

South Somerset District Council’s portfolio holder for Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Mike Best, said: “This project adds a lot of value to South Somerset and will be a major boost to the local economy as we attract more visitors. The funding announcement came as a surprise but it is very welcome because it’s a very large chunk of the funding that will be required for the work. The redevelopment would see major investment into our local economy and huge benefits to the health and well-being of our residents.”

Arts Council England South West Director Phil Gibby said: “We look forward to working more closely with The Octagon and South Somerset Council on this major capital development that will transform this regional theatre’s space, meaning more people in Somerset will have the opportunity to experience the life enriching benefits that culture brings to individuals and communities.”

In January the district council’s executive committee voted unanimously in favour to agree in principle to proceed with the project and potential funding applications were made.