We’re thrilled to share that Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet has approved a substantial investment in the Salisbury Playhouse transformation project. This means we’ve now reached a significant milestone in turning our renewal plans into reality.
A recent independent report showed that Salisbury's cultural sector contributes £52 million in annual economic impact and supports nearly 700 jobs locally. In recognition of the Playhouse's importance to Salisbury’s vitality, attractiveness and sustainable growth, the Cabinet has agreed to allocate £1 million of Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding towards the £22 million needed to renovate and modernise the building.
The Cabinet also approved arrangements for an underwriting commitment of up to £3 million to support our future fundraising campaign for the project, subject to legal and financial requirements. An update on the next phase of the campaign will follow towards the end of the summer.
Wiltshire Council’s decision follows a recent financial commitment of £250,000 from Salisbury City Council and an award of £3 million from Arts Council England's Creative Foundations Fund and is designed to help unlock significant additional investment from charitable trusts, donors and other funding sources. We’ve already secured an additional £2.2 million philanthropic donation towards the project.
Alongside the Playhouse renovation, Cabinet has agreed to support ongoing work to develop the Malthouse Lane area, to create a more attractive, better-connected cultural destination linking the Playhouse, City Hall, Fisherton Street and the wider city centre.
The first phase of the Playhouse transformation programme will address essential infrastructure needs, including repairs to the building fabric, improvements to accessibility and sustainability, and upgrades to mechanical and electrical systems. All helping to ensure the long-term future of one of the South West's leading producing theatres.
Our transformation will facilitate life-changing cultural experiences for all across Wiltshire and beyond. We look forward to working closely with the Council to bring these exciting plans to life.
