Liverpool City Council has given planning approval for the new Everyman theatre on Hope Street.

Council Leader Cllr Joe Anderson endorsed the new design describing it as "a vital redevelopment for the City's future. The Everyman is a real gem in Liverpool's cultural life and while it will have a new-look it will retain its unique spirit."

The planning application was submitted in May at which time Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) described the design, by prominent theatre architect Haworth Tompkins, as "an exemplar in all aspects of its design".

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The designs include new incarnations of the Everyman's dynamic and inclusive 400-seat ‘thrust’ stage auditorium, legendary basement Bistro and iconic Everyman sign. These will be complemented by vital facilities it currently lacks, many of which will also serve its sister theatre, the Playhouse.

These will include a Youth and Community Space for the theatres' vast and growing work with education and community groups; rehearsal space, workshops and offices for production staff; and a hub for writers to develop their work.

The £28 million redevelopment is scheduled to go on site in 2011 so that the new Everyman will open in 2013. Since the recent announcement £2.4 million Northwest Regional Development Agency funds would no longer be available to support the project, the Everyman management team has been engaged in positive discussions with all project stakeholders to close this gap and maintain the quality and momentum of the project. All remain fully committed to making it happen.

(CD/KMcA)