Jersey Opera House set for £11.5m restoration

Jersey's flagship theatre venue is to get an £11.5m makeover that will restore its historic features and add a new glazed structure.

Plans for Jersey Opera House, which is currently closed to the public, include improving accessibility and fire safety, protecting the building's dome and redecorating the auditorium.

The venue's dance studio and ticket office will also be renovated, and there will be improvements made to its lighting design. Work is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. 

Jersey's Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Deputy Kirsten Morel, said: “I’m thrilled plans are progressing to fully restore this iconic building, which is so important to all islanders, but particularly the members of the arts community.

"These plans will ensure that we will have a fit for purpose state-of-the-art facility long into the future."

Morel added: “While the renovations are carried out, we will be working closely with the Opera House Board to ensure the island’s arts community are kept informed of progress and that alternative venues are secured for future artistic events and performances."

The Chair of Jersey Opera House Board Limited, Pierre Horsfall, said: "A great deal of work has been happening behind the scenes to reach this point and I am delighted to see the plans are on track to reopen this much-loved venue for Islanders once again.”