HS2 has awarded the Crown Wharf Theatre in Stone £75,000 to help build a new auditorium and community space for the town
Crown Wharf Theatre on the former Joule’s Brewery site will receive the largest award that has been handed out on phase two of the HS2 project.
The firm has constructed and donated the shell of the theatre space to provide the project with a base to create the town’s new cultural space.
The new award granted by HS2 will refurbish the theatre to enhance its accessibility and buy a lighting grid, sprung timber flooring, sound equipment, and acoustic treatments.
‘A highly-valued asset for Stone’
Independent chair of HS2 Funds, Cathy Elliott, said: “The Crown Wharf Theatre’s successful application has enabled it to progress construction to a point where it can start being used and create an income stream to continue its development.
“The theatre will be a highly-valued asset for Stone and the surrounding area, and I am pleased that HS2’s Community & Environment Fund has been able to help get the scheme off the ground.
“I encourage other community projects to find out more about the HS2 Funds and the tangible benefits they offer to communities between the West Midlands and Crewe.”
‘Delivering a key phase of the auditorium’s development’
Crown Wharf Theatre trustee, Leo Capernaros, also commented: “HS2’s CEF funding will deliver a key phase of the auditorium’s development, helping us to turn the shell of a building into the new Crown Wharf Theatre.
“We still have more money to raise and a lot more work to do to completely finish the auditorium but having an operational space that the community can begin to use and enjoy will be a huge boost, and ensure local people begin to feel the benefit of this new facility in the town.”
