Plans for the transformation of the Royal Shakespeare Company's (RSC) Swan Gallery in Stratford-upon-Avon has received initial National Lottery backing.

The project has been handed a first-round pass by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to help towards a full grant application for £2.9m. Following the completion of a scheme to revamp its Royal Shakespeare and Swan Theatres, the RSC is now looking to overhaul the Grade II*-listed Swan Gallery.

It will form the fourth phase of a major conservation programme and safeguard the future of property - designed by architects Dodgshun and Unsworth and opened in 1879. HLF chair Dame Jenny Abramsky said: "We're pleased to be giving our initial support for these visionary plans which once fully developed will see the complete restoration of the magnificent Swan Gallery."

RSC director of events and exhibitions Geraldine Collinge added: "We look forward to conserving and returning the Swan Gallery to its original function as a gallery, but updated with a contemporary internal design incorporating digital technology, educational activity and exhibitions." Image: RSC/Peter Cook