Work Begins on Pioneering ‘Cultural House’ in Skegness
Alliance Leisure has begun the transformation of the historic Embassy Theatre in Skegness into one of the UK’s first Scandinavian-inspired ‘culture houses.’
This ambitious redevelopment supports East Lindsey District Council’s vision to enhance local engagement with the arts, celebrate diversity, and create a venue with year-round appeal.
Works on this trailblazing project are being delivered through the UK Leisure Framework, bringing together a proven team of leisure development specialist including Universal Construction and LK2 Architects. Axiom is overseeing day to day project management, with Alliance Leisure responsible for the overall project delivery.
The project incorporates two new, single storey extensions, adding to the venue’s current footprint. Works will include significant upgrades to seating within the auditorium, enhanced backstage access and facilities, the creation of a new feature entrance and a multi-purpose space to the rear of the building. A new external seating area will be introduced and there will be upgrades to existing changing rooms and toilet areas throughout.
Andy Newman, Director, LK2 Architects, explains:
The Embassy improvements are based on the founding design principles of the Scandinavian ‘culture house’. The development will provide larger areas for multi-use operations for Arts, Culture and Theatre use. The design provides a visible and attractive frontage with light airy arrival spaces offering maximum functionality and appeal to encourage the public to engage with the arts whilst providing new and refurbished staff and theatre areas to improve existing operations.
These latest works, funded through the Towns Fund, Arts Council England and East Lindsey District Council capital, form part of the Skegness Connected Coast Town Deal and Arts Council England’s Cultural Development Fund project.
Councillor Steve Kirk, the council’s champion for the project, says:
I am delighted to see another of our transformational Towns Fund projects getting underway in Skegness, and cannot wait to enjoy the cultural offer and opportunities it brings first-hand.
This project will help to allow residents and holiday-goers alike access to the highest quality of performances, workshops and more, and provide a platform for new creative businesses to develop and grow in East Lindsey and attract more visitors throughout the year.
Working with Alliance Leisure, through the UK Leisure Framework, gives us confidence that the project will be delivered on time and on budget. The timing of this project is absolutely critical. We need to be able to welcome visitors back into the main auditorium at the beginning of March because from that point on the theatre has a full schedule of shows booked.
Seb Rowe, Project Delivery Manager, Alliance Leisure, concludes.
Having served the town since 1926, the Embassy Theatre is a much-loved part of the town’s history. This investment and needs-based design will ensure the venue continues to deliver quality arts and cultural experiences to the community for many generations to come.
Works are due to complete in April 2025. The venue will continue to be managed by Magna Vitae, registered charity and partner to East Linsey District Council.