Savills to project manage Cambridge Arts Theatre refurb after £16m secured

Following a £16 million gift from the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, the theatre is poised for a transformation that will revamp its historic 666-seat auditorium to improve the experience for audiences.

The auditorium, which was last fully refurbished in the 1990s, will enjoy significant enhancements, including mechanical and electrical upgrades, replacement of all technical theatre equipment and structural works to improve sight lines for audience members.

Fundraising is underway for phase 2 which will see construction of a new 200-seat studio theatre atop the existing Grade II Listed building.

James Kelway, head of Building & Project Consultancy at Savills Cambridge, says: “We are thrilled to continue our longstanding relationship with the Cambridge Arts Theatre. This is an exciting project which will upgrade and revitalise a beautiful theatre building and facilities so that it can continue to be used by the community and enthusiasts for years to come.”

Rebecca Close, Associated Director at Savills Cambridge, adds: “I am excited to be a part of such a prestigious project within Cambridge. The project is complex and brings with it unique challenges, but we have a fantastic team of designers and partners who are all ready to work hard to bring the first phase of this exciting project to fruition.”

• The Gatsby Foundation was founded by David Sainsbury, former Chancellor of the University of Cambridge.