Once tired and run-down, a venue in Ellesmere Port has been transformed by Equans into a world class facility with a dedicated theatre space for children from across the borough.

Whitby Hall has undergone major renovations and the demolition of part of the building, to develop the site into a state-of-the-art centre of arts and culture for children, young people and their families.

The regeneration was funded through capital investment from Cheshire West and Chester Council, and Arts Council England, which included funding through the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.

The scheme also includes several sustainable technologies, such as a natural ventilation system below the theatre itself, in line with a push for net-zero across the region.

Alyson Seddon, Head of Education and Public Buildings at Equans, said: "It’s no secret that Whitby Hall is vital to the local community, and it’s been great to work alongside QWEST and Action Transport Theatre on the sustainable transformation.

"A big thank you to all those involved, and I’m looking forward to seeing Whitby Hall getting the use it deserves."

Nina Hajiyianni, Artistic Director/CEO at Action Transport Theatre, said: "We are delighted with the incredible transformation of Whitby Hall, the historic and much-loved building has been given a new lease of life and we are extremely grateful to the Council for their investment into arts and culture.

"Our new venue will be the only purpose-built, dedicated theatre for children and young people in Cheshire, on Merseyside and one of a small number across England. We look forward to welcoming local and regional participants and audiences through our doors this summer."