Forum topic: Intimate Theatre: Statutory body disappointed by go-ahead for demolition

Theatres Trust statement about the decision to allow demolition of the Intimate Theatre

Theatres Trust is hugely disappointed by the decision of Enfield Council to grant planning permission to the scheme that will ultimately result in the demolition of the Intimate Theatre. Added to our Theatres at Risk Register in 2019, the Intimate is a rare example of a repertory theatre design from the inter-war period with a rich cultural history that cannot be replaced.

It is particularly disappointing that the committee accepted the applicant’s stage proposal without any scrutiny, despite the detailed comments submitted by Theatres Trust last week. While some amendments have been made to the plans for the replacement building to be seen to address the committee’s previous concerns about theatre provision, in reality the proposals are not practically workable for live performances because the stage is inadequate in both height and floor space, audience sightlines would be poor, there is no supporting infrastructure such as sound and lighting, there are no obvious dressing rooms or storage facilities and the capacity is vastly reduced compared to current levels.

The redevelopment scheme in its current form would also leave the area without a community theatre space for amateur or local groups, for which there is widespread local support and a clear demand. Furthermore, in this time of climate crisis, the carbon cost of demolition and new build, which would have a significant negative environmental impact, is a further critical factor that should be taken into consideration

You can read about the history of the Intimate Theatre here: www.theatrestrust.org.uk/how-we-help/theatres-at-risk/830-intimate-theatre