Plymouth's Theatre Royal is to benefit from an extensive programme of work to modernise and upgrade facilities after a planning application was submitted to the local authority.

London-based Andrzej Blonski Architects are behind the proposals, which include five main elements and include the creation of a new learning space in the existing basement.

The replacement of aluminium cladding; an extension to the main entrance area; an overhaul of the interior front-of-house space; and reconfigured landscaping are also part of the plans.

Although subject to funding being secured, the scheme will help improve access and visitor circulation and will also improve the setting of the theatre and its surrounding public spaces.

Theatre Royal chief executive Adrian Vinken said: "Our aim is to modernise and make major improvements to the Theatre Royal to ensure it remains Plymouth's cultural centre of excellence for the next 50 years.

"Our ability to realise this vision will depend on whether we are able to raise the necessary scale of funding."

Image: Lewis Clarke