WORK has officially started on an exciting £9.5million project to enhance Runcorn’s The Brindley theatre.

The extension will include a large café-restaurant, relocated library and a civic space on the Brindley green, providing a more accessible and visible cultural destination. 

The enhancement has been made possible by funding from the UK Government and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

During the building works, access to The Brindley is now via Terrace Café, and there is new signage around the building and adjoining roads to assist visitors.

Free parking for The Brindley is now on the former Crosville car park, next to Costa, opposite the theatre and adjacent to Bridgewater Canal, with access via the A533 Bridgewater Expressway.

The Brindley’s programme of events will continue as normal, and the building work will not have an impact on the quality of the performances.

The Brindley enhancement is expected to be complete by June 2026, and you can keep up to date with the project via thebrindley.org.uk

Cllr Paul Nolan, Halton Borough Council's portfolio holder for cultural and leisure services, said: “It is great to see that work is now underway on what heralds an exciting future for The Brindley.

“Since opening in 2004, The Brindley has become a key asset in the borough and has steadily increased its customer base.

“The Brindley is an award-winning theatre, and by transforming it into a cultural hub, it will give the community even more reasons to visit.”

Award-winning Krol Corlett Construction, with multiple North West offices, has been appointed to undertake the building extension and enhancement works.

Dan Tebay, managing director of Krol Corlett Construction, which will be carrying out the work, added: “We are incredibly proud to be the appointed main contractor for this transformative project.

“The Brindley has long been a cherished landmark, and our team is excited to bring this ambitious scheme to life.”

The enhancement is part of a wider programme entitled Reconnecting Runcorn, which is made up of eight projects, incorporating 14 strands throughout Runcorn.

The aim is to drive sustainable, long-term economic and productivity growth through the regeneration of the town.

During August, The Brindley’s box office will be operating a phone and online service only due to the building work via thebrindley.org.uk or by calling 0151 907 8360.