Thanks to £19,383 in funding from Watford Borough Council’s Neighbourhood Grant, the Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre have improved the accessibility of the venue, enhanced the exterior look of part of the building and made the area more secure.
A building with rich history, the former pumping station was converted to a theatre in the 1970’s, and funding has allowed the team to resurface the side area to ensure easy access for people with disabilities. The increased accessibility is expected to boost footfall from 18,000 to 20,000.
Additionally, the grant has been used to make the theatre more secure, which will help to address the issue of anti-social behaviour. With these improvements, it makes the space an attractive and inclusive facility for all, as well as giving the public more confidence to find out more about the special theatre.
The long-lasting benefits of improving the building will ensure that the theatre can continue to provide an affordable community theatre for people to rent and visit for the next 50 years.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “The Pumphouse Theatre is not just a building, it’s a community space where history, education and accessibility come together to create an exciting and inclusive arts venue. These improvements will help enhance this offer further. The disability-friendly improvements to the theatre also ensure that the theatre can confidently offer space to all users.”
Chair of the Pump House Theatre and Arts Trust, Lee Farman, said: “The Pumphouse is a theatre for the people and is dedicated to making its facility accessible and inclusive to all. We look forward to welcoming the community to our newly improved theatre.”
The next round of funding for the Neighbourhood Grant will be in open for applications again in summer 2023, however, you can email NCIL@watford.gov.uk if you want to find out more in advance. To read more about the projects, please visit watfordneighbourhoodgrant.commonplace.is.