New Lyric Theatre Gets Underway |
07/05/2008
The Arts Council of Northern Ireland today welcomed the announcement that the Lyric Theatre will receive an additional £3.23 million on top of the £6 million already allocated from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure towards the construction of a new cultural and entertainment venue.
Arts Minister, Edwin Poots, MLA made the announcement during his visit to the Lyric Theatre in Ridgeway Street, as demolition of the theatre began. The Arts Council through its National Lottery funds has allocated £2.25 million towards the construction of the £15.23 million project.
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Commenting during the visit, Roisin McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said that the additional funding provided by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure addresses the needs of Northern Ireland’s arts sector. “After considerable efforts made by the Lyric Theatre, we are delighted to see the construction of the new building beginning. The additional injection of money into the Lyric is very much welcomed and I am confident that this improved arts facility will be crucial to the regeneration of Belfast.”
Arts Minister, Edwin Poots, MLA, said, “Arts and Culture Minister Edwin Poots, MLA: "This significant arts project has been in the planning stages for some time and it is very satisfying to see work beginning on site with the demolition of the old theatre.
"Through this investment, we are not only helping support the arts in Belfast, but we are also contributing to the economic and social development of our capital city. The arts play a vital role in the cultural and economic life of Northern Ireland and help to bring in tourists and further investment.”
The landmark arts venue which is expected to open in 2010 will boast a new two storey theatre, which has been designed to seat around 400 people, new front of house and back stage facilities, news office accommodation and house a 150 seater studio.
