Kier has been appointed to build the new Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot, Knowsley.

The £19 million scheme will be developed in the town centre and work is scheduled to get underway in April, with completion set for April 2020.

Features will include a 350-seat theatre, performance studio, exhibition and education centre, coffee shop and office space.

As part of the project, Kier will work with the local supply chain to boost the local economy, with 11 new apprenticeships and seven new jobs will be created during construction. Work placements will also be provided as well as training, education and community activities for local schools.

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Kier Workplace Services will also be working on the project as structural designers.

John O'Callaghan, Kier Construction Northern managing director, said: "We're excited to be delivering this fantastic scheme for Knowsley Council which builds on our success in the arts and leisure sector, including the recently completed refurbishment and redevelopment of Chester Storyhouse."

Knowsley Council Leader Andy Moorhead said: "I am delighted that Kier has been appointed to build the Shakespeare North Playhouse. This is another important milestone for the project and I am looking forward to seeing the start of construction."

(LM/MH)