St Albans' Maltings Theatre moves closer towards cinema plans

A STUGGLING St Albans theatre venue could be given a new lease of life should plans approved this week come to fruition. As first revealed by the Herts Advertiser, the Maltings Arts Theatre has hit financial difficulties and a business plan has been devis

A STUGGLING St Albans theatre venue could be given a new lease of life should plans approved this week come to fruition.

As first revealed by the Herts Advertiser, the Maltings Arts Theatre has hit financial difficulties and a business plan has been devised to turn it around.

The plans, which could see a cash injection of up to �600,000 for refurbishments, were agreed in principle by the district council's cabinet on Tuesday evening (3/11).

Their vision is to transform it into an adaptable cinema and theatre venue showing films, including 3D movies, four or five days a week with up to four screenings a day.

Despite concerns raised by the St Albans Civic Society about the heavy use of film, councillors have insisted that the theatre provision will be maintained with an average of one afternoon and one evening professional performance per week.

Theatre and children's workshops will also be promoted on weekdays and on Saturdays, and a digital lounge with sound and film equipment is proposed to facilitate them.

Among the other developments proposed are ventilation improvements, a dedicated management and box office and new seating.