The Watford Pump House will close its theatre from mid-August until the end of October to install new backstage facilities, the venue has announced on its website. Prefabricated units housing dressing rooms, toilets and a workshop will be installed behind the existing back wall, replacing existing facilities and bringing all backstage spaces onto a single level so that the stage becomes fully accessible to every performer.
Chairman Lee Farman said rising costs had forced the charity to split its original improvement plan into phases. “So, we’re pleased to announce that some of the long-awaited improvements to the venue will be getting underway this summer,” he said. While the main auditorium is shut, the Colne River Room, Charles Room, café and upper rehearsal rooms will stay open.
The theatre occupies a Victorian pumping station converted more than 50 years ago. Its Raise the Roof campaign had successfully secured £850,000 for a new roof, extra seating and other upgrades, but construction inflation added £450,000 to the bill. Around £50,000 of that has since been raised, leaving a £400,000 shortfall. Replacing the failing roof will eventually require rebuilding the theatre section with new foundations, steelwork and wall sections to meet current building regulations.
Watford Borough Council previously awarded the Pump House £19,383 through a Neighbourhood Grant for accessibility, exterior and security improvements. The venue is home to several resident companies, including Pump House Theatre Company, Belmont Theatre Company and Rickmansworth Players, and hosts the annual Watford Fringe Festival.
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