The Hall for Cornwall (HFC) will now not reopen until spring 2021 at the earliest, it was announced today.
The theatre closed its doors in June 2018 to carry out vital renovation and refurbishment work. And while recent work has moved forward apace, with the digging out of the foundations for the new air conditioning system completed and the laying of timber decking at circle and balcony levels prepared for the new tiered seating to be installed, the coronavirus crises has had an inevitable impact.
Construction work had a temporary pause last month as Kier reviewed its procedures to comply with the Construction Leadership Council’s Operating Procedures, which reflect the Government’s instructions.
While work has now restarted and care and responsibility of the team are the priority, the pause, as a result of lockdown the proposed reopening now scheduled for Spring 2021 at the earliest.
CEO Julien Boast said: “This is obviously a very challenging time for everyone with ever-changing circumstances impacting all our lives.
“All theatres are fighting for their futures at the moment and, whilst the safety and welfare of everyone are the priority, we must not forget the many pledges already made to fund our redevelopment. At the same time members of our young people’s companies and community projects have been working hard to offer performances and prepare for the moment when they can take their careers further in our new theatre.
“We are in close communication with our core stakeholders and funders, who are very supportive and exploring ways with us to ensure the project will continue to be successfully delivered.
“Like many other charities across the country Covid-19 is presenting us with significant challenges we need to overcome and we have been overwhelmed by the incredible messages of support we have received from members of the public during the past few weeks. A huge thank you to everyone who has taken the time to contact us.
“We are seriously impatient to reopen our theatre, to show off its potential and to welcome our loyal audiences again and again to all the fun, amazement and emotion that we will all share – when we are through this – together.”
