Basildon News
Towngate Theatre’s bar shut for six-week refurbishment
7:00am Saturday 4th February 2012
WORK to create a plush new bar at the Towngate Theatre in Basildon gets under way on Monday.
The £100,000 project will see the existing Cafe Scene area of the theatre, in St Martin’s Square, completely overhauled and transformed into a cosy area for diners and theatre goers.
Once complete, the venue will have more seating space and will cater for weekday customers looking for a coffee and a bite to eat, before transforming into a elegant bar after-hours.
Building work is expected to take six weeks.
During that time the Cafe Scene venue will be closed, although a limited service will be on offer in the foyer for theatre audiences.
Kevin Blake, Basildon councillor responsible for leisure, said: “One of the areas highlighted in the theatre’s ambitious business plan as being in need of investment is the catering facility.
“When reopened, we will be offering a varied food menu during the day, as well as a good bar service during shows.
“I believe the new facilities will go a long way to encouraging more people into the theatre.
“This is all about creating a top-class events venue, offering value for money for the local community.
“It is the first part of major investment within the Towngate over the coming years.”
The theatre’s fortunes have dramatically changed since Basildon Council took over the running of the venue in 2006.
Where once it stood empty and gathered dust for eight years, it now hosts big-name acts and has produced a hugely successful pantomime for the past four years.
For more details about the theatre’s business plan and the work visit www.towngatetheate.co.uk