There are hopes a theatre will reopen in 2026 following a multimillion pound refurbishment.

Arun District Council said designs are currently being finalised for the £15 million transformation of Bognor’s Alexandra Theatre.

A council spokesman said: “With Neilcott Construction as the main contractor for the next stage of the Alexandra Theatre rejuvenation, progress is being made.

“Neilcott is currently finalising detailed design work together with the Arun District Council regeneration team. Special attention is being given to planning the construction programme and minimising disruption to the Regis Centre car park and Place St Maur.

Read more: Decision expected on retail park plans with Lidl, McDonald's and B&Q

“The council will share more information about the construction schedule in the coming weeks, ahead of work starting in autumn 2024.

“Based on the current programme, the theatre is anticipated to welcome audiences in the first quarter of 2026.”

The council was awarded £12.19million of Levelling Up funding and will contribute £3 million of its own money to the scheme.

The plans will see the theatre, in Belmont Street, partially demolished and a new extension will be built, to accommodate for more seating in the main auditorium. There would be space for 386 seats, up from the existing 357, and a new lighting bridge to remove the need for current access ladders within the auditorium.