The HLF first-round pass* means that can now progress to the second stage of the HLF application process, and includes a development grant of £116,200 which will cover the development costs of working the scheme up to RIBA Stage D and gaining planning approval.

The Trust ran an international architecture competition to find a clear vision for the building that would address the key issues of access to basement, circle and balcony levels, public facilities including toilets and bars, improving the entrance and public realm outside the theatre and restoring the magnificent art deco auditorium to its former glory.

Allford Hall Monaghan Morris won the competition in March 2009 from a long-list of 53 architect practices from all over the world. They have been working with the Trust ever since to develop their plans ready for fundraising to begin as soon as a long lease was agreed with the council. The scheme for the theatre is the work of Paul Monaghan, an ex-pupil of St Edward’s College.

Gillian Miller, the Chief Executive of the Royal Court Trust, is pleased with the way that the campaign is going so far: “This is brilliant. As well as providing a substantial amount of funds, the grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund will signal confidence in the project to other investors. It will significantly improve the building for the thousands who attend the theatre each year and enable the Royal Court Liverpool Trust to develop new opportunities for the public to make sure that even more people can learn about and enjoy this fantastic art deco building. There is a great team of people behind this project and many to thank for their support, none more so than the general public who have already contributed over £40,000 to the project through the £1 ticket levy”

Sara Hilton, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund North West, said: “The Royal Court Theatre holds a special place in the heart of the city, and plays an important role in the Liverpool’s cultural heritage. This project has the potential to transform the experience for the Royal Court’s wide ranging audience, as well as giving more people the chance to learn about the theatre’s history. There is still development work that needs to take place before the project can progress to the second-round, but HLF will be offering the Trust  full support in taking their application further."

The full scheme will be realised in stages over a number of years with full information on the plans available at www.royalcourttrust.org 

The public can donate can either donate through the Royal Court Trust site or go to www.royalcourtliverpool.com 

Tickets and information for all Royal Court Liverpool productions are available from www.royalcourtliverpool.com or on 0870 787 1866

Notes to editors

* A first-round pass means the project meets our criteria for funding and we believe it has potential to deliver high-quality benefits and value for Lottery money. The application was in competition with other supportable projects, so a first-round pass is an endorsement of outline proposals. Having been awarded a first-round pass, the project now has up to two years to submit fully developed proposals to compete for a firm award.

Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. HLF has supported 33,900 projects, allocating £4.4billion across the UK, including £500million to projects across the North West.

Further information

Iain Christie, Royal Court Theatre on 07867 992 098 or iain@royalcourtliverpool.com