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The long-awaited £11.5m refurbishment of the Opera House is finally underway – but the Minister leading the project has said he "wouldn’t be surprised" if more problems that take "additional time or resource" to solve are uncovered in the process.
Once restored, the Grade 2-listed venue will have improved accessibility and fire safety, protection for the iconic dome, a redecorated auditorium, as well as an improved dance studio, ticket office and lighting.
In total, £11.5 million has been allocated in the Government Plan over 2023 and 2024, with the restoration on target for completion by the end of next year.
Over the next ten weeks, Ashbe Construction will carry out enabling works, which will involve removing the internal fixtures and fittings and assessing precisely what will be required during the main phase of the refurbishment.
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Video: The refurbishment of the Opera House has begun. (@ashbe_constructionjsy)
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said: “It has taken a long time to get to this stage and, like many Islanders, I am relieved that we will see this much-loved building being transformed into a modern facility, which will serve the Island and our arts community."
Deputy Morel continued: “As is often the case with historic buildings, we do not know what Ashbe will uncover through their enabling works – and I wouldn’t be surprised if they discovered issues which may require additional time or resource to resolve, but we will be working with Ashbe and the Opera House Board to keep our community updated on the progress of the work.”
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