Public invited to have say on historic opera house

An initiative to help shape the future development of a historic arts venue in Derbyshire is being opened to the public.

Buxton Opera House, which hosts hundreds of events every year, opened in 1903 and went through a multi-million pound refurbishment in 2001.

Last year, a funding package of nearly £200,000 was secured to investigate the long-term future of the Grade II* listed building, including building surveys and "sustainability opportunities".

Now, an event has been organised on 12 March at the Pavilion Arts Centre where residents and interested parties can find out more about the project, ask questions, and voice opinions and ideas.

The building is owned by High Peak Borough Council and operated by the High Peak Theatre Trust.

In 2025, it was awarded a grant of £174,020 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, with the council providing an additional £15,000.

Council leader Anthony McKeown said: "The Opera House is one of the High Peak's most well-known and loved buildings and has been at the heart of local, regional and national cultural life for over 100 years.

"The work we're doing now is aimed at both safeguarding the building and ensuring it remains fit-for-purpose, along with enhancing it for the future.

"So it's really important that we hear from a wide range of people and listen to their thoughts, experiences and ideas to help shape future investment and development plans."

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