Knowsley Council has approved £6 million in funding for plans to deliver the UK’s first Shakespeare theatre with education at its core.

The 350-seat theatre and education centre in Prescot will offer actors, writers, students and young people the opportunity to study and practice the plays of the Bard.

The plans aim to build upon the area’s theatrical heritage, with Prescot being home to the first indoor Elizabethan theatre outside London over 400 years ago.

The proposal has been submitted by the Shakespeare North Trust, with a final decision on the plans expected to be made on 21 April.

Councillor Andy Moorhead, leader of the council, says: “This is a project of a significant scale, with a potentially transformational effect on Prescot, Knowsley and the wider Liverpool City Region.

“While the proposals still need to gain the necessary planning approval, it would appear to be very much in the interests of local people and businesses to do what we can to make sure the development happens.  That’s why we have agreed a financial contribution from the council to help to deliver this exciting project.

“In return for our investment, we anticipate that the scheme will deliver over £10m worth of value to the local economy, as well as 210 construction jobs and 57 full-time jobs once the facility opens.  The theatre will also increase spending in the area by almost £1.5m each year.  And, of course, it will also provide enormous educational and cultural opportunities for local people.

“It would put Prescot on the map internationally as an important visitor attraction, and would, in turn, be a huge boost not only to Knowsley but also to the wider Liverpool City Region.”

The funding will be allocated from a £25.6m package of investment from council cash reserves which aim to improve and enhance town centres.

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