A £1m restoration of Richmond's Georgian theatre comes a step nearer today with the submission of formal plans to Richmondshire District Council.

The application sets out urgent proposals to improve the 18th century building to meet the requirements of modern companies, performers and audiences.

More than £700,000 has already been pledged to the project by the heritage lottery fund and international bankers Brown Shipley.

A public appeal was launched to raise the balance and it is hoped work will begin early next year and be complete for the start of the 2003 season.

The plans, which will update facilities for all theatre users and expand community use, involve demolition of the 20th century buildings which currently house the stairs and bars.

They will be replaced by a new three-storey wing with toilets, a bar, coffee shop, meeting and seminar room and disabled actors' dressing room. New stairs and a lift will provide access for all to every part of the theatre.

A subsequent listed building application is being prepared to restore and re-equip the auditorium, backstage and dressing rooms.

Detailed research will ensure historical accuracy and authenticity are preserved at the theatre, which opened in 1788.

Theatre chairman Lady Crathorne said: "The conservation plan for the theatre itself will dictate and control the work needed to make good the wear and tear within the auditorium.

"All grade I listed aspects of the building will remain as they are but bold plans and immediate work on the modern facilities are needed to ensure the theatre's future is secured for future generations.

"The Georgian theatre is a very special attraction that has long brought great benefit to our local economy.

"We are all extremely excited at the prospect of it playing an even greater part in the future development of Richmond."

An open day at the theatre next month will give statutory consultees and the public a detailed view of the development and restoration proposals.

A fundraising raffle, which features a first prize of a Vauxhall Corsa car donated by Sherwood's of Darlington, has already been launched.

Other prizes include a print by internationally-renowned artist Mackenzie Thorpe, who is based in Richmond.

Raffle tickets are £1 from the theatre in Victoria Road, or tel 01748 823710. The draw is made on December 15.

Contributions to the appeal may be made by cheque, payable to Georgian theatre, credit cards or bank standing order.

Donations can be enhanced at no extra cost to the donor using Gift Aid forms available from the theatre.