The long-term future of the Lyric Theatre and Cinema in Carmarthen, south west Wales, has been safeguarded after it was awarded a £300,000 grant from the Arts Council of Wales (ACW).

The funding will go towards a £1.5m revamp of the venue, which will result in it beoming a specialist theatre. The decision to remove the Lyric’s cinema aspect was made following an announcement that a six-screen Apollo cinema multiplex is to be developed in the town. Plans for the revamp of The Lyric include improved backstage and changing facilities, the installation of improved heating and ventilation systems in the auditorium and improved access for disabled visitors and performers to all areas of the venue.

It is expected that the theatre will reopen in September following completion of the revamp, which is being carried out by TRJ. Designs for the re-modelled areas have been drawn up by Cardiff-based Lawray Architects, while Mott MacDonald has been appointed to manage the scheme. The Lyric will also continue to screen mainstream films until the new Apollo Cinema complex opens in 2010, before screening specialist films alongside an expanded programme of live performances.

Carmarthenshire County Council (CCC) executive board member for regeneration and leisure services, Clive Scourfield, said: "Developing and improving the Lyric is important to it's continued success in providing a focus for both local and visiting companies to perform in the region." Kath Davies, ACW's head of arts funding, added: "The venue plays an integral part in the cultural life of Carmarthenshire and we look forward to seeing a revitalised building which can offer first rate facilities for audiences and performers alike."

The refurbishment of the Lyric Theatre is part of CCC's plans to improve the county's cultural facilities, including the creation of Ammanford Miners Theatre in 2001, the restoration of Dylan Thomas Boat House, Laugharne, in 2003 and revamp of Carmarthenshire Centre for Crafts in St Clears, which is due to re-open in July.