URGENT repairs are being carried out on the Theatre Royal in Winchester.

The building is part swathed in scaffolding is up to aid repair to the weather-damaged southern facade.

The theatre has been helped by a £5,000 grant from Theatres Trust towards the £9,000 cost.

Undertaking the work this month is Tew Bros Ltd of Southampton during August.

They include repairing and decorating the Tower Street side of the hundred year old building and addressing the cause of water ingress.

Mark Courtice, chief executive, said, “Theatres Trust’s grant for Theatre Royal is very welcome. It is great to feel we have such a vitally important organisation in our corner as we fight to keep our lovely building alive and bustling with activity.”

Theatre Royal Winchester is a Grade II listed building dating as a venue from 1914.

The Theatres Trust describes it as ‘an excellent example of a small cinévariety theatre which has survived in remarkably complete condition.’

The 400-seat theatre provides a venue for professional touring companies and local amateur groups. 
Tim Eyles, chairman of Theatres Trust, said: “Our eighth round of small grants supports several small theatres that have been seriously affected by poor weather. I’m proud that our Theatres Protection Fund is helping to ensure that these theatres can continue to operate safely and serve their communities.”

Theatres Trust is the national advisory body for theatres. It was established by the Theatres Trust Act 1976, ‘to promote the better protection of theatres’.