Building work has now started on the first phase of the Raise the Roof improvement works at the Pump House.
Contractors are on site to demolish the back wall of the theatre so that three prefabricated units can be installed to replace the backstage dressing rooms, toilet and workshop. This will create much improved facilities for performers and make the stage fully accessible to all as they will all now be on the same level.
Although this means the theatre is currently out of commission, all the other Pump House facilities remain open. That includes the Colne River Room, Charles Room and the Upper Rehearsal Rooms.
While these initial improvement works take place, fundraising efforts will continue to plug the shortfall needed to be able to replace the failing roof. Due to current building regulations the only way to do this is to rebuild the theatre section with new foundations, new steelwork and some new wall sections.
A few years ago, we launched the Raise the Roof Appeal which successfully secured £850,000 for the project. But we revealed in June that a further £450,000 is urgently needed to meet the rising construction costs. Off the back of this summer’s campaign a further £50,000 has been raised – a massive thank you to everyone who contributed to this – but it does mean we are still £400,000 short of the amount needed.
So along with our efforts to secure funds, we are asking for people’s ongoing support to help us fulfil our ambition to upgrade this much-loved arts space and secure its future for the community for the next 50 years.
Donate at: https://pumphouse.info/raise-the-roof/
