The Curve Theatre in Leicester’s Cultural Quarter will continue to be surrounded by narrow walkways, fences, and scaffolding for another year following a safety incident in early May. The building’s owner, Leicester City Council, has confirmed that the precautions were implemented after a large metal “louvre” fell off the building, prompting the need for extensive repairs.
Impact on Local Residents
The presence of scaffolding and fencing around the theatre has posed challenges for local residents and businesses in the area. Dylan Mathias, representing the St Georges Mill Residents Group, expressed concerns about the inconvenience caused to pedestrians and the negative impact on the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood. He noted the difficulties faced by theatregoers and delivery bikes navigating the area, as well as the potential loss of business for Curve due to the ongoing construction work.
Another resident, who chose to remain anonymous, described the pedestrian route along Rutland Street as resembling something out of a prison due to its narrow and congested nature. The individual lamented the impact on businesses like The Exchange Bar and the cancellation of events in Orton Square, leading to two summers of missed opportunities for the community.
City Council Response
In response to the safety concerns, a city council spokesman explained that the louvres on the building’s exterior needed to be securely fixed to prevent further incidents. The replacement of the original fixings and the installation of new ones will be carried out by a specialist contractor, with work scheduled to begin later in the year. The council anticipates completing the repairs by autumn 2025, ensuring the safety of visitors to Curve and Orton Square throughout the process.
The spokesman emphasized the importance of maintaining a secure environment while enhancing the visual appeal of the area during the construction period. Collaboration with Curve Theatre is underway to address the challenges posed by the ongoing work and to ensure that all activities at the theatre continue as usual despite the external renovations.
Community Concerns and Future Plans
While safety remains a top priority for the council and Curve Theatre, community members are eager to see improvements in the area to mitigate the disruptions caused by the scaffolding and fencing. The need for a more efficient pedestrian route, enhanced business opportunities, and the revival of cultural events in Orton Square are key considerations for residents and local businesses.
As the construction work progresses, efforts will be made to engage with the community and gather feedback on ways to enhance the overall experience in the Cultural Quarter. The collaborative approach between stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and cultural institutions, will be instrumental in shaping the future development of the area and fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for all.
In conclusion, while the scaffolding and fencing around Curve Theatre may present temporary challenges for the local community, the long-term benefits of ensuring the safety and structural integrity of the building are paramount. Through ongoing collaboration and proactive engagement with stakeholders, Leicester City Council and Curve Theatre are committed to enhancing the appeal and functionality of the Cultural Quarter for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.