Plans to refurbish an ageing Bromley theatre which was founded in 1938 have been handed a big boost.

Bromley Little Theatre in North Street was once a Victorian bakery but is now home to 11 productions per year.

A Co-op store in Chatterton Road has donated more than £6,000 to contribute to the renovation works.

 

Diane Ryken, a volunteer at the theatre, told News Shopper: "We basically want to bring the building into the 21st century.

"We want our members to be more comfortable. We also don’t want to have buckets out when rain is coming through the ceiling," she laughed.

The last time the roof was repaired was back in 1978 and architects are currently working on ideas to improve most aspects of the structure.

"We have ambitious plans," Diane said. “It is a tricky project, the ventilation is poor and it is hot in summer and cold in winter.

"The money we received from the Co-op was a big help. We want to have better toilets, a better kitchen and we want the community to be able to use the space during the week and not just at night."

A new ramp to combat a very steep stair entrance is also being sought.

Once details have been finalised the theatre will be approaching the council for planning permission.

The theatre has around 1,000 members, and volunteers believe the development work will cost in excess of a million pounds.