Built in 1978, the significant project will see the theatre remodelled to make the building far more efficient and sustainable. Skelly & Couch are delivering innovative and sustainable MEP solutions to achieve ambitious energy-saving targets within the constraints of the Grade II listing.

Services are being replaced and redesigned with intricate co-ordination through tight spaces. Fabric improvements and an extension will create new foyer space and multi-purpose rooms. Gas is being removed completely and boilers replaced with low carbon air source heat pumps for heating and hot water. Reimagined public spaces will feature an improved café, bar, gallery, cinema complex and new family areas. For the theatre itself, the back-of-house spaces will be revitalised with an improved wardrobe department, new rehearsal rooms with sprung flooring and higher ceilings, plus workshops, remodelled auditoria and a reinforced stage with the mechanics and fly system repaired.

Additionally, to continue the organisation’s community work, there will be purpose-built well-being spaces and facilities dedicated to the health and welfare of vulnerable people in the community. The project will also provide rehearsal and teaching facilities for Flintshire Music Service and a youth hub. These improvements are taking place as part of a phased construction period, to allow the theatre to remain open throughout the redevelopment, and for performances to continue in a 300-seat pop-up theatre constructed adjacent to the main building. 

Theatr Clwyd has a BREEAM rating of ‘Very good’. Best Use of Arts, Culture or Sport in Placemaking Finalist in the 2021 Planning Awards.

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“Skelly & Couch are extremely experienced at working on complex buildings and their knowledge and great attention to detail have been very beneficial to this public-facing project.” Jack Tilbury, Client Project Manager, Plann Limited