A new Newry city theatre could see its cost rocket by millions of pounds according to a secret council budget report.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s landmark development adjacent to Newry Town Hall has been estimated at a cost of £21.3m by the local authority.
However, the Local Democracy Reporting Service now understands through a council source, that the overall budget including risk, inflation and fees allows for the finances to expand the potential cost to almost £29,207,000.
Woodvale Construction Company is currently renovating the historic Grade II-listed Newry Town Hall and building a multi-functional venue upon the site of the neighbouring Sean Hollywood Arts Centre. Linked by a glazed atrium, the two buildings will operate as a single location.
The arts project is a key element of the wider Newry City Centre Regeneration £64.4m programme, including a 15-acre Newry City Park, new public realm, office accommodation fund and a Civic and Regional Hub.
Set to complement the historic 460-seater Newry Town Hall theatre, the new auditorium will have 255 seats capable of being used in a range of configurations, supported by the latest in audiovisual and performance systems. In its expanded conference layout, this versatile space can also accommodate up to 315 seats.
According to the council website, the theatre and conference centre is expected to be completed in May 2028.
