Overview
At the ripe old age of 90, the CBD's Regent Theatre has probably earned a bit of a makeover. And that's exactly what it'll get under the City of Melbourne's grand plans to spend a tidy $1.6 million refurbishing the historic site.
The preservation project would see the theatre — which is one of just a few left from the interwar period — get a revamped dress circle, improved seating and an overhaul of its recognisable lit-up Collins Street entrance. The idea is that this will ensure the Regent can remain one of Australia's top theatres and continue to attract high-profile productions. (Hamilton, perhaps?)
It'll be just the latest Melbourne theatre to get an upgrade, too, with the Forum Theatre getting a revamp in 2017 and the Capitol Theatre slated to reopen this year. La Mama Theatre also copped $1 million from the State Government to help it rebuild after a fire last year.
Melbourne Town Hall by Josie Withers/Visit Victoria
It was announced that Melbourne Town Hall will receive a refurb as well — worth a cool $4.5 million. This would see the ground level of the Town Hall Administration Building given a significant restoration, improving the space's accessibility and functionality, and revamping the customer service area. The City of Melbourne is aiming to kick off this pilot later this year, and will then consider what further works are needed over the next six years.
These projects are part of the city's larger draft Annual Plan and Budget 2019–2020, which will be released in full this week. Of course, before it comes into effect, it will be considered by councillors and then be open for public feedback until Friday, June 7.
The City of Melbourne's full development plans will be outlined when it releases its draft Annual Plan and Budget 2019–20 later this week. We'll keep you updated on the details.
Top image: Robert Blackburn/Visit Victoria.