Liverpool's Neptune Theatre revamp to start

The Neptune has been closed since June 2005

Work to restore Liverpool's historic Neptune Theatre is set to begin within weeks, five years after it closed due to health and safety reasons.

The project was delayed by a dispute over the leasing arrangement between Liverpool City Council and landlord, Hanover Estate Management Limited.

£700,000 pounds will be spent on refurbishing the Grade II listed venue, on Hanover Street in the city centre.

It is hoped the 97 year old theatre will re-open in mid 2011.

The theatre, which began life a music hall in 1913, has been closed since June 2005.

Leader of Liverpool City Council, Councillor Joe Anderson said it was "nothing short of a travesty" that its been lying empty for the past five years. "Its absence has been sorely felt by performers and audiences alike," he said.

Maritime heritage

The Neptune was acquired by Liverpool Corporation in 1967, what was then called Crane's Music Hall was renamed The Neptune to reflect the city's maritime heritage.

The theatre was dedicated to the memory of Brian Epstein, manager of The Beatles in 1997, the last performer to appear there before it closed in 2005 was Rob Brydon.

"The Neptune was a vital stepping stone in Liverpool's comedy and theatre land, providing countless people of all ages down the years with their first experience of performing at a major city centre venue," said Cllr Anderson.

"Until recently it was a much used venue for community groups across the city with a well established niche for comedy acts..."

"I'm delighted we've been able to agree terms over building consent and can now forge ahead with bringing back to life one of our most important cultural jewels."