A WINCHESTER theatre has taken a step forward with plans to expand its arts venue.

Chesil Theatre bought the former Earlys coal yard in Chesil Street last year, and a planning application has been submitted to Winchester City Council. 

The plans include a new foyer/rehearsal area, community/performance space, improved facilities for young actors and those with mobility impairments and additions to the dressing rooms to meet legal requirements.

Winchester Dramatic Society, founded in 1863, took over the redundant St Peter’s church in 1962, when the building was in a dangerous condition and threatened with demolition. 

READ MORE: Chesil Theatre in Winchester buys neighbouring house for expansion plans

Hampshire Chronicle: Chesil Theatre membersChesil Theatre members (Image: Contributed)

With assistance from the then Winchester Preservation Trust, and significant fundraising, the building was converted into the Chesil Theatre, opening in 1966. 

Over the years, Chesil Theatre continued to expand, adding two thriving youth theatre groups, a national new playing writing festival and a community outreach programme.

Chairman of the trustees, Stephanie Danby, said: “We feel we are now making real progress with our exciting plans to enhance this part of the Conservation Area and ensure the future viability of a valuable heritage asset that we have been solely responsible for over 60 years.

"We are very encouraged by the positive pre-application discussions with Winchester City Council and look forward to working with them to obtain planning consent for our exciting development.”

By Friday, November 10, no comments in support or objection have been submitted. 

For more details about the plans online, search 23/01941/FUL on Winchester City Council's planning portal.