Construction on phase one of a proposed £7.2m restoration of the King’s Theatre in Glasgow could get under way later this year.

Work on the Grade A-listed 1904 building, which will include seating refurbishment, is dependant upon an agreed plan with Historic Scotland, which is currently in discussions with the theatre. The renovations should begin once these talks are complete, a spokesperson for the theatre said.

Glasgow City Council, which owns the Ambassador Group-managed facility, has contributed £395,000 towards the project. A recommendation will be made that a second contribution be made in 2009/2010 and a third in 2010/2011, subject to further discussion and review. The theatre has also obtained £50,000 through fundraising.

The restoration will take place during the theatre’s annual summer dark period, which will be extended from four weeks to eight weeks. The theatre’s programme of events will be scheduled around this and will be unaffected, the spokesperson said. The complete redevelopment of the theatre is set to finish in summer 2014.

“The King’s Theatre is a Glasgow institution, playing host to top stars, shows and musicals as well as giving amateur groups a chance to showcase their work,” said Glasgow councillor Archie Graham, executive member for culture and sport. “Phase one of the theatre’s development programme is just the first step to restoring the King’s to its former glory.”