The refurbishment and redevelopment of the Grade II listed Royal Theatre and the 1980s Derngate Theatre in Northampton has been announced as a finalist in the RICS East Midlands Awards 2008.
Now in their 18th year, the RICS Awards celebrate and recognise exemplary projects across four award categories - building conservation (sponsored by Nottingham Trent University), regeneration (sponsored by East Midlands Development Agency), sustainability and community benefit (sponsored by Electical Contractors Association).
The £14 million renovation, which has been nominated in both the Community Benefit and Building Conservation categories, included significant demolition and reconstruction work of the building to create a modern space with a traditional feel. In addition, the project saw the careful and sympathetic restoration of the building, the creation of a new foyer along with a rehearsal room, additional performance spaces and amenities and the upgrading of the facilities to modern standards.
Every year, the Royal and Derngate Theatres attract over 350,000 visitors who will now, as a result of the work, be able to enjoy the theatre’s original Victorian splendour with 21st Century comfort.
David Potter, RICS East Midlands operations director, said: “As always, competition for the Awards has been at a very high standard so the Royal and Derngate Theatres have done extremely well to be amongst the finalists. Over the last year, Northampton has invested heavily in its leisure and tourism facilities, the result of which is clearly shown in this nomination.
“We wish the Royal and Derngate Theatres the very best of luck for the next stage of the competition, which will be the regional awards ceremony at the East Midlands Conference Centre, in Nottingham, on May 9.”
The 2008 RICS East Midlands regional dinner and awards ceremony will be hosted by BBC presenter, Janine Machin. Joining her on the night will be special guest speaker, Ron Atkinson, one of football’s larger than life personalities, whose 24 years managerial experience has made him a greatly respected voice in the game and a fantastic after dinner speaker.
In addition to the individual category sponsors, Hays is kindly providing sponsorship for the overall event.
