Thumbs up for Scarborough Spa's Little Theatre restoration plan

Earlier this year, Scarborough Council lodged a planning application for works to the Grade II listed Spa complex on the town’s South Bay to allow it to make full use of the building’s Little Theatre.

Years of movement and water damage have taken their toll on the theatre, which now can only be used on a restricted basis.

The borough council’s planning committee has granted planning permission for the work to be carried out.

Scarborough Council’s plan will see a permanent fix for the building undertaken.

The planning application stated: “The Little Theatre at Scarborough Spa has undergone structural movement over a period of time, which has caused the failure of the structural columns supporting the roof.

“Additionally, the theatre has also suffered from water ingress, which has led to internal damages.

“The theatre now operates with restricted use and requires both waterproofing and structural support to ensure that the condition does deteriorate further and is brought back into full use.”

The work would restore the use of the theatre’s galleries and remove temporary support structures that are currently in place.

Cllr David Jeffels told today’s meeting that it was “imperative” the work was carried out as soon as possible.

He said: “The theatre is a great asset to Scarborough and the town’s cultural life.”

Cllr Jane Mortimer added: “When you see [the damage] close up it really looks terrible.”

The committee approved both planning permission and listed building consent for the work to be carried out unanimously.

The Spa in Scarborough is a Grade II listed building that dates back to the 18th century, founded upon a fashionable mineral spring, yet the building that now stands, began to take form later in the 19th century

The Little Theatre forms the northern wing of the Spa which was a later addition to the complex during the late 1870s