Minster begins demolition of the old Lyric building
On a beautiful May morning the symbolic demolition of the old Lyric Theatre was begun by Edwin Poots, Minster of DCAL, Jim Rodgers, Lord Mayor of Belfast and Roisin McDonough, Chief Executive of ACNI. Demolition can begin due to the granting of an extra £3.2m to the new theatre by DCAL as part of their Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland 2 fund.
Two important milestones have been passed for the project in recent weeks. Planning permission for the new building was granted by Belfast City Council at its meeting on 17 April. The long established Northern Ireland construction firm, Gilbert Ash, has also been appointed as preferred bidder for the construction contract. Gilbert Ash has constructed many of the most important arts auditoria in Northern Ireland in recent years including the Waterfront Hall.
The preferred bidder status is part of a two stage contract award and procurement process, designed to maximise the delivery of the Lyric’s vision for the building. It is envisaged that the final contract will be signed in late June. Demolition of the old building will take place throughout May and early June.
Mark Carruthers commented, ‘This is the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in the Lyric Theatre’s history. We are delighted to welcome the Minister, in particular, to begin the demolition. We welcome his department’s contribution to this important step in the cultural life of the country – just as we warmly welcome the support of our many other supporters.’
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