Image: How the new-look Rosehill Theatre will look

Rosehill Theatre, an arts organisation based in Whitehaven, Cumbria, has secured £1m from Copeland Community Fund towards the extensive redevelopment of its facilities.

The £4.5m project has already received support from Arts Council England worth £2m, with the Johnston and Wright-designed plans including new contemporary front-of-house, backstage and exhibition spaces.

Increased performance space and a renovation of its historic auditorium also form part of the scheme, which will provide new commercial opportunities and income generation.

Rosehill director Richard Elder said: "Rosehill's intention is to be a local theatre of national significance which this funding takes us much closer to achieving.

"The theatre was created in 1959 and while great effort has been made with its upkeep it is in need of major restoration and refurbishment to meet contemporary needs."

Work is expected to commence in 2013, with the new-look theatre opening in October 2014.

Details: www.rosehilltheatre.co.uk