The Brighton Dome, an arts venue in Brighton that contains a concert hall, the Corn Exchange and the Studio Theatre, has announced plans to undergo a major refurbishment.
Due for completion in late 2018, the transformation of the Grade I listed Brighton Dome Corn Exchange, formerly the Prince Regent’s riding house, will reveal and restore many of the building’s previously hidden heritage features.
The refurb will also provide increased capacity seating to 500 with a new viewing gallery.
Brighton Dome Concert Hall will remain untouched and available for hire throughout the re-development project. This has a maximum capacity of 1,700.
Main improvement to the Brighton Dome Corn Exchange will include the restoration of natural light; the reveal of original timber and cast-iron trussed roof structures; new entrances and a new floor; and new retractable balcony seating.
Future visitors can also expect improved technical equipment, new cooling and heating systems, and enhanced acoustic and thermal insulation.
Brighton Dome’s Grade II listed Studio Theatre, once a stables and supper room, will also be fully refurbished to include contemporary bar facilities, improved access and foyer spaces and a café opening onto street level.
Andrew Comben, chief executive for Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival said: “As well as safeguarding this important heritage site for the future, the works will provide brand new state-of-the-art facilities for events.
“This refurbishment will firmly place Brighton Dome on the UK events map and we look forward to welcoming new functions, both big and small, to the venue.”
The renovation of Brighton Dome will be the starting point for a culture and heritage-led project for the whole of the Royal Pavilion Estate and its surrounding areas.
The project will be delivered in three phases and is hoped to reinvigorate the buildings and landscape of the historic Royal Pavilion Estate.
For more information visit brightondome.org.
