THIS is the first picture of how the Mercury Theatre could look after a multi-million pound revamp.

Plans for the redevelopment of the theatre have been approved by council bosses.

The scheme will see parts of the theatre demolished before extensions and a revamp costing £8.9m can take place.

When work is complete, the theatre will have a bigger foyer, better backstage facilities and a brand-new cafe.

The main auditorium will also be revamped and extended, whilst a new rehearsal and community space will be built in order to support the best talent in the town.

Steve Mannix, executive director at the Mercury Theatre, said the council’s approval of the Mercury Rising Campaign was a huge boost.

He added: “The Mercury works to be a welcoming, creative hub for all, and I’m so glad that we are one step closer to improving its facilities so that we can continue to offer top class theatre on Colchester’s doorstep.”

Money from the project will come from a variety of sources.

The theatre is aiming to secure £3.5 million from Arts Council England, while about £2.5 million has been pledged by Colchester Council and Essex County Council.

It is hoped the remaining £2.9 million will come via donations from trusts, foundations and the general public.

Some £790,000 has already been raised and the theatre remains hopeful the money will be secured by the 2021 deadline.

Marketing manager Amy Carbonero said: “We are on track. We have had such a positive response from everyone.

Building work is set to start in 2018, with the new facilities opening in early 2020. All theatre activities will be moved off-site when the development commences.

Theatre bosses are yet to decide where the theatre will relocate to but have confirmed it will be in Colchester. The former Garrison Gym, off Circular Road North, is set to be converted into a theatre rehearsal space.