A NEWLY-built theatre which accommodates a community project near Oswestry has been shortlisted as a finalist in the West Midlands Local Authority Building Control (LABC) Building Excellence Awards 2020.

The new Holroyd Community Theatre, in Weston Rhyn, is situated in the grounds of Moreton Hall, and has been recognised in the national construction awards under the category of Best Public Service/Educational Building

It was designed by Gareth Edwards of local firm DPA Design, and constructed by Jones Brothers builders.

Chris Jones, director of Weston Rhyn’s Jones Brothers and a fourth generation builder leading on the construction of the project, who has welcomed the nomination by DPA.

He said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for this prestigious industry award, it’s a testament to the hard work put in by the whole team.”

Judged by a panel of construction industry experts the awards celebrate the highest quality projects from around England and Wales and reward the best in technical innovation, construction quality, sustainability and creative design.

The theatre’s foyer and 180-seat auditorium has been designed to provide a performance space and promises to be not only a venue for local performers but also a destination for professional touring companies.

George Budd, principal of Moreton Hall was also pleased to hear of the nomination.

He said: “These awards recognise high quality design and build - meaning it’s another endorsement that the Holroyd is a fabulous addition to the local area with its professional quality performance, function and display spaces.”

The doors to the theatre can officially reopen following lockdown imposed by Covid-19.

Finalists for the West Midlands LABC Building Excellence Awards will be announced on Thursday, September 10, 2020.