Major changes to design of ‘transformational’ theatre redevelopment in Berwick approved
Councillors have approved plans to make a number of changes to a key regeneration project in Berwick.
The £28million scheme to revamp The Maltings theatre was initially approved by county council planners in October, but the proposals returned to the planning committee with a number of revisions.
Under the new plans, the main auditorium will be moved to the same level as the car park, while the new cinema will go to the bottom level.
The council says the revisions will “improve the overall functioning of the new building” and enable “easier access” to the main venue.
The changes mean there are some differences to the external design of the proposed building. There will be “greater retention” of the existing structure and the area of metal cladding has been significantly reduced in size.
Speaking at the meeting, The Maltings (Berwick) Trust chairman Scott Sherrard stressed the importance of the scheme to the town.
He said: “This is a transformational project driving positive change for Berwick and with notable public benefits. It is about providing excellent facilities and new opportunities for our young people.
“It has been a very long and challenging time coming. We want to make Berwick and all of Northumberland proud – this development makes that possible.”
However, some councillors remained unconvinced about the design of the building. Coun John Beynon branded it “horrendous” and said: “I dislike the design intensely”.
Coun Malcolm Robinson added: “We’re still building square boxes. I hope one day we’re going to look at a building and we’re going to say that’s beautiful and pass it.
“However, it’s harm versus benefit. To give Berwick a cultural and entertainment centre like this for thousands of residents and visitors far outweighs my petty concerns about how it is built.
“What I would urge is – we keep seeing these projects coming forward. We agree them and then they don’t get built – if this passes, can we see some spades in the ground?”
Other councillors were more positive. Coun Dan Carr said: “I’m sure the Maltings will be to Berwick what the Colosseum is to Rome.”
Berwick East councillor Georgina Hill, who proposed approval, added: “There is a minority of individuals who were very vocal and put a lot of work in to raise concerns about heritage. It is right we have had a proper hearing of those concerns.
“Even if there is some harm to the conservation setting, there are so many benefits to The Maltings. It was in the Borderlands deal because of its potential to be transformational. I think the case for supporting this is overwhelming.”
The plans were approved almost unanimously, with no votes against and only Coun Beynon choosing to abstain.