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Posted: Sun, 11 August 2024
The Hawkesbury Little Theatre, a popular volunteer-run venue in Buckley, has submitted plans for a permanent extension to replace its temporary dressing rooms.
A cornerstone of the community for over 65 years, the theatre is a registered charity and has a cubicle-like structure for its dressing and changing rooms.
The theatre management had already applied to Flintshire Council for an extension of the temporary planning permission for the hut in 2022, but had encountered resistance from the planning authority.
Concerns have been raised about the impact the temporary structure would have on the character and appearance of the nearby heritage-listed Hawkesbury Hall.
The possible refusal of planning permission raised fears that the theatre might have to be closed, as the portable building currently serves as the only place for actors to change their costumes.
Since 1984, the Buckley Theatre Club has performed numerous pantomimes and plays at the Little Theatre, with this year’s pantomime, ‘Dick Whittington’, being a sell-out.
The theatre secured a long-term lease from Flintshire County Council in 2001 and annual planning permission for the dressing room was granted from 2004 to 2017.
However, only a provisional permit was granted for the facilities to remain in place until June 2025 to give the theatre time to find a permanent solution.
The newly submitted plans, which are currently in the consultation phase, envisage a permanent extension to the rear of the stage.
The design includes three changing rooms, each with two toilets, creating much-needed space and improving the visual impact of the historic surroundings.
A decision on the plans is expected by the end of September.
The outcome could be crucial to the future of the theater and determine whether it can continue to serve as a cultural hub for the Buckley community.
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