Matchfunding boost as curtain call nears in bid to save former Burnley Empire Theatre

Volunteers working to save the former Burnley Empire Theatre have been handed a boost in their quest for funding, thanks to the Architectural Heritage Fund.
Burnley Empire stage. PIC: Ben HamlenBurnley Empire stage. PIC: Ben Hamlen
Burnley Empire stage. PIC: Ben Hamlen

During the past 12 months Burnley Empire Trust (BET) has been working towards creating a new destination for the people of Burnley and East Lancashire. Citing the Empire as a new centre of activity for local cultural and creative communities as well as a space for learning, socialising and collaboration for everyone.

However, the coronavirus epidemic meant that previous funding streams for essential stabilisation works haven’t been available, which inevitably puts the heritage of the building at major risk of being lost, for the next generation of Burnley and beyond.

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BET has already raised around £5,000 and have just days left to raise all funds needed.

But the Trust have been handed a lifeline for their fundraising appeal with the news that the Architectural Herotage Fund will matchfund anything raised by the Trust.

BET director and chairman Sophie Gibson said: "The match funding grant is just incredible. This really gives us a chance to raise the funds needed to start dealing with the major asbestos issues within the auditorium, repair the most vulnerable areas of the roof as well as installing a safety net inside the auditorium to prevent any falling plaster.

"We’re always grateful for the huge amount of support and kindness we receive from the public. We knew it wasn’t the best of timing to launch a fundraising appeal but it was the only choice we had due to no other funding options.

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"I really hope people can help us hit the £10,000 target or even better the £15,000 and raise in total £30,000 with the new match funding grant."

Gavin Richards, the Architectural Heritage Fund’s programme manager, said: “I’m delighted that the Architectural Heritage Fund has been able to support the Trust to progress its vision for the future of Burnley Empire Theatre.

"The building is an iconic Victorian venue in Burnley and this crowdfunding campaign will be an important step towards securing it for years to come.”

Claire Appleby, architecture adviser at Theatres Trust, said: "Theatres Trust is delighted that Burnley Empire Trust has been successfully awarded match funding by the Architectural Heritage Fund.

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"Burnley Empire has been on our Theatres at Risk list since 2006 but real progress has been made to securing its future since BET took ownership in 2018.

"BET has great plans to restore and revive the Empire as a vibrant community venue, but essential work must be carried out to make the building safe before those dreams can become a reality. We hope this excellent news will act as an incentive for more people to support the fundraising campaign and help BET reach its target."

Donations will be match funded 100% up to £15,000 and any funds raised over BET’s target will go directly towards funding further restoration works.

To support and help BET volunteers carry out the essential work before the end of the year search Burnley Empire Trust on Crowdfunder.co.uk and donate by September 2nd and help save the building. Or click https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/burnleyempiretrust

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