Efforts to secure funding for the redevelopment of Aberdeen's historic Tivoli Theatre - part of the Green Township Heritage Initiative (THI) - have taken a step forward.

Brian Hendry, chair of the Tivoli Theatre Management Company, has met the condition for demonstrating that the Grade A-listed venue will be able to be brought back into use. Up to £520,000 is available to help fund repairs to the Tivoli's exterior and the reinstatement of architectural features lost during the past few years.

One of the Green THI's priority projects, Hendry plans to renovate the theatre to include a 450-seat auditorium, rehearsal spaces, dressing rooms, dance studios and gymnasium and a theatrical museum. A café and additional retail, leisure and business space also form part of the scheme, which could be awarded funding by September if work to specify further details and to cost the development is completed.

Green THI project manager Graham Young said: "This grand old theatrical lady has enjoyed a rich and colourful history. Although she has fallen on hard times in recent years she can now look forward to a new lease of life. "The restoration and ultimate reopening of The Tivoli will be a pivotal link in helping to stimulate and regenerate the Green THI area."

Image: Aberdeen City Council