It has been announced that South Somerset’s District Executive Committee has approved the expansion of Yeovil Octagon Theatre ‘on principle’.

The project will see the venue transformed, increasing the capacity from just over 600 to nearly 900. Proposals state that the venue will be “fully accessible throughout” with “ two additional boutique spaces which have potential to be used as cinema or studio space, plus an additional cinema”. 

However, the approval is not a done deal quite yet and whilst the project has been approved at this stage, it “requires sign-off from councillors… with the business plan, finance plans and planning permission needing to be approved”. The entire process, plus construction, is expected to take around three years. 

Portfolio holder for Health and Well-Being at South Somerset District Council Mike Best said: “I am delighted that these proposals were agreed in principle which would see major investment into our economy and huge benefits to the health and well-being of our residents. We have more important steps to take in the coming months and the feedback and support from our residents has been very encouraging.” 

The venue says that the project will allow it to house large-scale shows and produce major work, unable to be presented in the past. Public consultation is expected to take place soon.