Ipswich theatre approved for £3.5m revamp funded by ticket levy

Plans for a £3.45m revamp of a 1920s theatre in Ipswich have been given the green light by the borough council.

The Regent’s Theatre project is being funded by a restoration levy on theatre tickets. 

Since 20 August, 20p has been added to the cost of tickets above £10, in addition to a pre-existing restoration levy of £1.50.

The town centre venue will close for the refurbishment next May, with a planned completion date of December 2025.

Built in 1929, the building will have its original features restored, including full-height ceilings and Art Deco-inspired light fittings.

New features will include larger bar areas, more toilets and improvements to the venue’s accessible entrance.

There will also be a new lift tower and a glazed, covered walkway to create an alternative entrance.