Funding hopes for Torch rekindled (From Western Telegraph)

Funding hopes for Torch rekindled

STAFF at the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven are hoping for a funding boost next month.

The Torch Development project was disappointed when its application for Objective One funding was not shortlisted earlier this year.

But the £2 million bid to continue refurbishing the 30-year-old playhouse may be reconsidered next month, if other applications fail to meet deadlines for match funding and planning permission.

The project has already raised £3.2 million of the £5.2 million needed to go ahead.

Artistic director Peter Doran, said: "If we are unsuccessful with Objective One funding, this will not necessarily mean the whole thing will be cancelled.

"We would hope to continue, but maybe on a smaller scale."

Plans include a second auditorium, restaurant, gallery and terrace bar.

Disabled access to all parts of the building would be developed and the front of the building would receive a facelift creating something more interesting and pleasing on the eye.

Exactly how these plans will be changed if the extra funding is not available has not yet been discussed.

"We'll wait for the outcome and then cross that bridge," said Mr Doran.