First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, marks work starting on site at Citizens Theatre.

06.09.2019

First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon joined Leader of Glasgow City Council, Susan Aitken to mark work starting on site for a major redevelopment of the Citizens Theatre in Glasgow. The redeveloped building will transform the experiences of audiences, participants and performers and secure the future of one of Scotland’s most iconic buildings and leading producing theatres.

The project designed by Bennetts Associates will be the most comprehensive redevelopment of the category B listed building in its 140-year history, redesigning an ageing and vulnerable building into a vibrant cultural venue for communities across Scotland. Constructed by Kier Construction, it will deliver improved accessibility, secure the heritage of its unique Victorian features and offer new bar and café facilities as well as rehearsal, learning and studio spaces.

Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister said: “The Citizens Theatre is more than just a building. Over its 140 years it has hosted performers, welcomed audiences and been a genuine hub for the Gorbals community. The Citizens Theatre has a very special place in Scotland’s cultural landscape and I am delighted that, thanks to this joint investment including £4.5m from the Scottish Government, its future has been secured for generations to come.”

James Nelmes, Director, Bennetts Associates, said: “We are thrilled to see work commence on site at the Citizens Theatre. The project will deliver spaces and experiences full of character reflecting the unique and idiosyncratic nature of the Citz. Much of the hidden world behind the scenes will be accessible to audiences and visitors for the first time. Bennetts Associates has a long history of working in partnership with arts organisations to develop award-winning, vibrant cultural spaces and we look forward to seeing the new vision for the Citizens Theatre realised.”

The redevelopment is a 2-year construction project. The building will re-open in 2021.