New roof to protect 'much-loved' theatre

Richard Madden
BBC News
North Lincolnshire Council The exterior of the Plowright Theatre in Scunthorpe. The large red -rick building has large white lettering on the front along with two red-coloured doors. The right of the building has a large glass canopy leading to the main doors and  floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Scaffolding, covered with blue and yellow mesh, is visible on the roof.North Lincolnshire Council
The Plowright Theatre in Scunthorpe was built in 1958

Work to replace the roof of a theatre is expected to finish in March, officials have said.

The Plowright Theatre, Scunthorpe, was built in 1958, but a recent survey found the existing roof had reached the end of its lifespan.

North Lincolnshire Council, which owns the building, said it could no longer continue with patchwork repairs due to the risk of leaks damaging the auditorium, performance equipment and other parts of the interior.

The £160,000 funding for the project has come from the government's Shared Prosperity Fund.

The venue, which is named in honour of the late actress Dame Joan Plowright, has been described by the council as an "essential part of Scunthorpe's entertainment scene".

Councillor John Davison, cabinet member for culture, heritage and arts, said: "This investment is fantastic news for the Plowright Theatre and for the local community.

"By replacing part of the roof now, we are protecting this much-loved venue and ensuring it remains a vibrant space for live performances in North Lincolnshire."

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