The Theatre Royal Plymouth's new �8.2m purpose-built production and education centre has been officially handed over by the contractors, Bluestone.

The new centre, called TR2, still has to be completed and the communication networks, workshop equipment and offices are now being installed.

An official opening for the project is planned for mid-2003.

The 37,450 square feet waterfront building has been constructed on reclaimed land in the Cattedown area of the city.

"Remarkable building"

When complete it will house all the production-making facilities and the education department for the Theatre Royal.

The building will also accommodate rehearsal space for new shows both for the Theatre Royal main stage and its Drum Theatre.

Adrian Vinken, the theatre's chief executive, said: "After so much planning, hard work and fantastic support from both the city and the region, this is a real milestone.

"Now we can look forward to fitting-out and moving into this remarkable building before welcoming the public in late spring."