A £12 million (€17.9 million) refurbishment of Belfast's Lyric Theatre has been announced by the newly appointed Northern Ireland arts minister, David Hanson.
The department of culture, arts and leisure will contribute up to £6 million (€9 million) towards the redevelopment of the riverside site.
Mr Hanson said yesterday the move was not only about supporting the arts in Belfast, but also about boosting the economic and social regeneration of the city. "Over the years, the Lyric has greatly enhanced the quality of life in Belfast and has been Northern Ireland's only full-time producing theatre," he said.
"I am certain that a brand new Lyric will encourage more people to visit Belfast and bring increased business to the local hospitality industry."
Lyric board chairman David Johnston described the occasion as "a very significant day for the Lyric".
The proposed new building, with its spectacular glass wall overlooking the Lagan, will comprise a larger two-storey performance space and a 150-seat studio theatre. There will also be new rehearsal rooms, improved backstage facilities and a bistro.
The development will allow the theatre to expand its education and outreach programmes, provide training opportunities to young people and encourage community involvement.
Work is expected to begin in 2007 for completion in 2009.