Listed building investigations at Theatre Royal, Addington Street, Margate

“The application seeks listed building consent for internal investigative works including the creation of trial pits, opening of ceilings, floors and walls and inspection of building servicing routes, including in the roof and voids.”

“The Design and Access Statement sets out that all investigations will be undertaken on a minimal intervention basis, with works restricted to areas that have been identified as necessary and as outlined in the drawings. No alterations to the external fabric or appearance of the building are proposed as part of this application, and the changes would be temporary.”

“The application site comprises the Grade ll* listed Theatre Royal, which is an important focal building from both a heritage and community perspective. Constructed in 1787 and remodelled in 1874, the building has high historic value due to its age and form. The building is currently on the National Heritage at Risk Register and Theatres at Risk Register due to its condition.”

“Notably the site lies within Margate Conservation Area. The site is located on the north eastern corner of Hawley Square and the surrounding area is mainly residential in nature.”

“L/TH/26/0261 - Application for Listed Building Consent for the demolition of existing lean-to structure and erection of two storey side extension, installation of plant equipment and solar panels to roof, refurbishment of windows, facades and features, installation of ventilation system, reconfiguration of auditorium seating, installation of new internal staircase and associated repair works - Pending Consideration…”

“F/TH/26/0260 - Demolition of existing lean-to structure and erection of two storey side extension, installation of plant equipment and solar panels to roof, refurbishment of windows, facades and features and associated repair works. - Pending Consideration…”

“It is noted that Historic England, the Theatres Trust and the Council's Conservation Officer all support the scheme and consider the proposed investigative works to be appropriate and necessary. While some of the works are slightly invasive, they are required in order to gain a fuller understanding of the building's condition.”

“The application represents the first step in the redevelopment and ultimate re-opening of the theatre. As noted above, the development does lead to less than substantial harm to the Grade ll* listed theatre. Paragraph 215 of the NPPF requires that less than substantial harm to significance should be weighed against the public (including heritage) benefits of a proposal.”

“Thank you for consulting Theatres Trust on this application for listed building consent at Theatre Royal Margate. It seeks to undertake investigative works in advance of the anticipated refurbishment and development project at the theatre for which we have been engaged.”

“This is a priority case for Theatres Trust, with this building being on our Theatres at Risk Register and also on Historic England's Heritage At Risk Register. We are keen to see its return to active use. A site visit was undertaken in July 2025. This proposal consists of specific and targeted inspections, for example small areas of floor exposure, the lifting of balustrades, ceiling investigations and the creation of small pits to test structure and construction.”

“Letters were sent to the neighbouring occupiers, a site notice was posted near the site and the application was advertised in the local press. One comment in support of the application has been received and its contents is summarised below:”

“The investigative works are an important first step in understanding the building's condition and planning the necessary improvements to bring it back into use. The reopening of the theatre would be an amazing cultural asset for the local community and would contribute positively to the character and vitality of the area.”

“Councillor Rusiecki proposed and Councillor Paul Moore seconded that the officer recommendation to approve be AGREED, subject to the following conditions:”

“The Planning Applications Manager advised the Planning Committee that a further condition was proposed by KCC and agreed to by the applicant and it is as detailed below:”

“2 The structural investigative works hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the approved methodology and details as annotated on the following plans: SK INV01 Rev 2 uploaded 19.02.2026 SK INV02 Rev 2 uploaded 19.02.2026 SK INV03 Rev 2 uploaded 19.02.2026 SK INV04 Rev 2 uploaded 19.02.2026 02.60 Rev P2 uploaded 26.01.2026.”

“A photographic record will be maintained during investigative works. Should unexpected archaeological remains or historic fabric be encountered, then work shall cease in that area of investigation and specialist archaeological advice sought an appropriate investigation and recording undertaken.”