A MULTI-MILLION pound project to revitalise Reading’s Hexagon Theatre has reached its first major milestone as part of a larger initiative to bring some of the town’s public buildings more up to date.
Reading Borough Council has announced that the £13.7 million project has now had a number of key team members put in place ahead of the major works planned for the building.
Stirling prize-winning architectural studio Haworth Tompkins has been selected as the lead architect of the works, which will see the organisation work with a number of design teams to deliver a refresh to the theatre in Queens Walk.
Haworth Tompkins as worked on a number of high-profile projects including the Futures project with The National Theatre and the remodelling of Chichister Festival Theatre.
As well as lead architects, a project manager has been appointed, with independent consultancy Equals Consulting chosen to oversee the project.
The first phase of works will see the extension of the right-hand side of the building, complete with a new step-free entrance, providing much-improved accessibility to the space and a new multi-function community area.
It’s part of a wider scheme to create what has been dubbed a “Minster Quarter,” which will also see new homes built in the centre of Reading and an update to the civic offices in Bridge Street.
The scheme also plans to move Reading Central Library to form part of the Bridge Street site, improving accessibility to the library resources, which is currently undergoing further public consultation.
Emma Gee, Reading’s interim executive director for Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services, said: “Today’s announcement heralds an exciting first step towards revitalising our popular Hexagon Theatre, including a brand new and additional flexible performance and community space.
“This is further incredible news for Reading and once again confirms the Council’s strong track record of successfully attracting external investment and the highest quality project support to benefit local residents and our ability to deliver against investment.”
She continued: “We are incredibly proud of the calibre of the team we have onboard with us to help us achieve this ambitious goal.
“The Hexagon Theatre is a much-cherished and well-established institution, both in Reading and across the wider region, but it comes with limitations.
She explained: “With our successful bid and with an internationally renowned team onboard, we now have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform and breathe new life into this service, while also supercharging our broader plans for redevelopment of the Minster Quarter and to create new benefits and opportunities for everybody in the town.”
Director lead for the project, Lucy Picardo from Haworth Tompkins, said the company was “thrilled to be appointed.
“Building upon our extensive experience, working on over 30 performing arts projects, we are excited to be given the opportunity to work alongside Reading Council to develop proposals for an ambitious, sustainable, adaptable theatre and community space next to the Hexagon Theatre.
“Alongside our dedicated and creative team, and with valuable input from the local community, we’re looking forward to unlocking the potential of this iconic theatre for staff, performers and visitors alike.”
