One of Scotland's oldest theatres is a step closer to being redeveloped after being awarded almost £5m in lottery funding.

The venue, affectionately known as "Citz" and which originally opened in 1878 as a variety theatre, has been awarded a total of £4.9m by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) towards the redevelopment. This also includes a grant of £500,000 to allow the Citizens Theatre to develop the project to the next stage of the application process.

The redevelopment would see improvements made to the auditorium as well as to other historic parts of the building, while 20th century additions which are no longer fit for purpose will be removed and replaced. New spaces, including a new foyer, learning and rehearsal studios, classes for workshops, an administration hub and improved catering facilities will all be created, while accessibility throughout the building will be upgraded, with lift access available to all levels. The public viewing windows will also help to highlight the building's historic machinery and the auditorium, visible to all visitors and to the theatre.

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With regards to the exterior of the property, it too will be transformed, with statues of Shakespeare, Burns and the four Muses, originally from the roof of the 1878 building, adorning the new façade.

Colin McLean, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland, said: "The Citizens Theatre is held in great affection in Glasgow and far beyond although I don't think anyone would disagree that it has seen better days. We are delighted to give our initial support to a project which will bring those better days back.

"We have a shared vision of the Citz becoming a place where friends can gather for a coffee, enjoy outstanding performances, learn about the performing arts, and discover the wonderful working heritage behind its scenes. It will reaffirm people's pride in the Citizens Theatre and in their community."

Dominic Hill, Citizens Theatre Artistic Director, added: "I am incredibly grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund for their support of our ambitious plans. Our vision for this project is to create a building which honours and celebrates the remarkable history of this theatre, while remaining a vibrant and vital landmark in our community.

"The Citizens work on stage has long been celebrated for being bold, innovative and accessible to people from all walks of life, and I'm looking forward to working in a building that reflects that philosophy."

Architects Bennetts Associates will be responsible for the redevelopment and the firm has said it will respect the building's heritage. Work is expected to begin on the project in autumn 2016.

(JP/IT)