WORK on the campaign to restore the Darlington Civic Theatre to its original glory is progressing well.

A Civic Theatre Foundation fund has now been created and a new director of fundraising and development has been appointed to drive the campaign forward.

In July last year the theatre received support for a £5m funding bid from the Heritage Lottery Fund which will be used as part of a £7.8m project to restore the Grade II listed building.

Improvements include the creation of a new café-bar and gallery, better disabled access and improvements to backstage areas, which will allow the theatre to accommodate larger shows.

The fund has been set up with the County Durham Community Foundation and will be chaired by Charles Tompkins -a highly respected leader in his sector who helped create the region’s world-leading subsea industry.

Mr Tompkins said: “I’m delighted to be a part of a project that plays a key role in the cultural life of the town and the region as a whole.

“Alongside ambitious plans for growth in jobs and business, we are enhancing our reputation as the place to live, learn and play.”

Councillor Nick Wallis, Darlington Council’s cabinet member for leisure and local environment, added: “It’s an exciting time for the arts in Darlington.

“The Civic Theatre is a well-loved part of Darlington’s heritage and we’re well on our way to restoring it to its former Edwardian glory.”

The theatre has also appointed a new director of fundraising and development, Heather Walkington, who will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of the fundraising total and will work with Mr Tompkins on the campaign.

Work is expected to begin on the theatre in June 2016 and it will reopen in autumn 2017.