This is the first image of how the new theatre and events space inside the Garrick Theatre building in Southport will look once the landmark building has been transformed.
Garrick Southport Ltd has revealed its desire to carry out the refurbishment of the existing event auditorium at the site on Lord Street, which was originally designed by renowned architect Edward Tonge and opened in 1932.
The firm said last year that “a theatre and performance space will be at the heart of our plans”.
The proposal is for the conversion of the building into a high quality spa hotel, residential and commercial units.
Read More: Former Garrick Theatre to be transformed with hotel rooms, apartments, gym and spa
The magnificent Art Deco building on Garrick Parade, just off the Lord Street boulevard, once hosted world famous stars of stage and screen including Julie Andrews, Laurel and Hardy and many others.
But it faced an uncertain future after tenants Mecca Bingo announced in April 2021 that they would be leaving the premises.
A planning application has now been submitted to Sefton Council which would see the restoration of the theatre space, in addition to 137 hotel rooms, 11 residential apartments including a terrace and pool on the 4th floor, various commercial units, a gym and spa, a bar and restaurant, a rooftop extension to provide 5 additional floors and a new canopy to the front.
Garrick Southport Ltd has “a track record of developing listed buildings” and is determined to restore the Garrick back to its former glory.
The building was placed on the ‘Theatres At Risk’ list by the Theatres Trust last year.
Garrick Southport Ltd said last year: “The Garrick is an iconic venue and while the building does need a lot of work, we are doing everything to ensure its heritage and Grade Listed Status is preserved.
“Rest assured a theatre and performance space will be at the heart of our plans.
“The Garrick will live on for years to come.”
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