Theatre submits £31m grand plans

The new building will have better seating and ventilation

The £31m renovation of Leeds' historic Grand Theatre has taken one step closer, councillors have announced.

The plans for improved seating, sound, lighting and ventilation for the Grade II* listed building have been submitted to Leeds City Council.

In addition to the main auditorium, the adjoining Assembly Room will be restored to provide rehearsal space and a 350-seat performance space.

The work will provide Opera North with its first permanent home.

300 performances

Warren Smith, general manager of the theatre, said: "This project will give us the opportunity to maintain our position as the top lyric theatre in the region."

"It is the main performing venue for Opera North but it also hosts many other visiting companies of high stature.

"Over 240,000 people attend 300 performances a year and we hope that this development will improve their theatre-going experience."

The theatre's transformation is being carried out in partnership with Leeds City Council and Opera North.

It is hoped the work will be paid for by grants from Arts Council England and the Heritage Lottery Fund as well as other donations.

Work is due to begin in early 2005 if planning approval is granted.