THE Chesil Theatre in Winchester has bought the next-door house paving the way for its expansion plans.

Winchester Dramatic Society, based at the Chesil Theatre, was celebrating on Monday October 17  with the purchase of the former Earlys coal yard on Chesil Street.

The society now owns land and buildings at 14 Chesil Street next to the existing theatre and can go forward with their proposals for expansion.

Chairman David Small said: “As an amateur theatre company, we’ve been entertaining the community since 1863 and for the last 55 years from our Chesil Theatre base.

"Over this time, our activities have been extended but the footprint of the medieval building we are proud to call home can’t.  This landmark occasion gives us the opportunity to satisfy so many needs – particularly for disabled access and facilities for children, including our own Chesil Youth Theatre.”

William Shakespeare’s Macbeth is being presented in January 2023. This will hark back to the early days, being the very first play performed by Winchester Dramatic Society.