Million pound theatre planned at Shropshire border school
An independent school has submitted plans to build a £1 million theatre in their grounds on the Shropshire border.
Bosses at Moreton Hall girls' school near Oswestry have submitted a planning application to Shropshire Council and hope to see the first curtain go up in 2019.
The idea for a 300-seat community theatre was born when benefactors Bill and Julie Holroyd saw the positive benefits of drama through their own daughter’s education.
Mr Holroyd said: "I feel that the girls of Moreton Hall can successfully lead a campaign that will add to their experience - but most importantly, result in a place for the community to come together and learn about, participate in and enjoy all that the arts have to offer.
"I look forward to being in the audience when the doors open."
The plans by Tim Ronalds Architects - the company which designed the Hackney Empire - are estimated to cost just under £1 million.
So far more than £900,000 has been raised including a pledge from Old Moretonian Sheila Reid, who is best known for her performance as Madge Harvey in ITV's sitcom Benidorm.
Headmaster Jonathan Forster said: "It is now up to the enterprising and community spirit in and around Moreton Hall to see this plan come to fruition. The aim is for the current students to follow in the footsteps of the girls who in the 1980s and 90s were successful in their efforts to open Gobowen railway station."
If successful, the box office, catering, designing and producing would be run by the students as part of Moreton Enterprises.
The centre, which would comprise a theatre, foyer, toilets and backstage area, has received the backing of local schools and drama groups who would be able to use the facilities at Moreton.
A decision is expected from Shropshire Council by September 7.
