The Maltings revamp tipped to start in autumn

The £28m project will see the redevelopment of the theatre complex in Berwick-upon-Tweed project, a flagship cultural infrastructure project under the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.

The scheme aims to deliver a redeveloped theatre, two full-time cinema screens, a new rehearsal facility, and an expanded café and bar for the Northumberland town, and create a modern, flexible venue capable of supporting year-round cultural programming and increased visitor capacity.

The project received a £4m injection from the council last November, which was intended to keep the project on track after rising costs affected delivery timelines.

In the works for five years now, a RIBA design competition was announced by the council in December 2021 for the redevelopment of the Maltings venue, with MICA Architects being declared victorious in March 2023. Plans were then submitted in March 2025.

Under the MICA plans, the main auditorium is to be refurbished and beefed up, with more capacity and an extended balcony level. The main entrance level would be rearranged with an enhanced café/bar offer and a main cinema screen.

The new rehearsal studio is to be located on the top floor alongside improved office space, a meeting room, a foyer and an external terrace overlooking the river to the south.

To the lower ground floor there is proposed to be a secondary cinema screen, a space that could also be used as a small-scale performance or events space.

A secondary entrance and foyer from Shoe Lane, would improve access to the building from the south and it is proposed that this area could be closed off from the rest of the building, adding flexibility for use as a private hire space.

General modernisation elements are also included, such as improved level access to facilities.

Northumberland Council Leader Glen Sanderson said: “Final preparations are being put in place prior to work starting later in the year on this world-class cultural venue, which will boost the wider economic fortunes of this wonderful town and north Northumberland.

“There’s currently a lot of work happening behind the scenes to get ready for the main works, and teams are doing everything they can to minimise disruption.

“The venue’s location does bring some logistical challenges, and we’ll continue to liaise with businesses and residents ahead of, and throughout the construction.”