LEISURE bosses have set a date for the re-launch of a popular arts venue that has been closed for building repairs.

The Empire Theatre in Consett was due to open at the beginning of January, following a £700,000 re-fit. But the project fell behind schedule severe rising damp was discovered in the walls.

Further delays were caused when Derwentside Leisure Services, which operates the venue, had to wait for a High Court decision on a Stopping Up Order to close a public footpath while a disabled access was installed.

The centre will now re-open on March 20, with a show by Eagles tribute band Talon.

Coun Alex Watson, leader of Derwentside District Council, said: "It is going to be worth waiting for. Everything seems to be going according to plan now - we don't expect any further delays."

The overhaul aims to transform the venue into a stylish theatre and cinema. The auditorium has been fitted with two new wheelchair stations and a dressing room specifically designed for people with disabilities.

Workers will install more than 500 new seats over the next fortnight. The revamp also includes a better sound system and a 50-piece lighting rig.

The old under-stage dressing rooms have been refitted and extended and new toilets and showers fitted.

There will be a hospitality room with reserved seating for corporate entertainment and show sponsors. During the daytime, it will be made available to local businesses as a meeting room.

In early February, film projectors that have been under wraps for nearly eight months will be reinstalled and a new downstairs bar and lounge fitted out in.

Staff hope that, along with the new portico, this expanded area should solve the queuing problem that was traditionally part of the Empire experience on busy nights.

An open day takes place at the venue on Saturday, March 22, 10am-9pm, which includes free admission to a children's film in the cinema at 2pm, or a ticket to a grown-up movie in the venue at 7.30pm.