Thousands of pounds have been donated to The Pump House after it announced it may have to close if it cannot repair its roof.
Watford Borough Council has donated £19,383 to the arts venue, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022, via its Neighbourhood Grant.
The money has been used to improve accessibility of the venue, enhanced exterior look of the building, and made the area more secure, which was needed due to anti-social behaviour.
Chair of the Pump House Theatre and Arts Trust, Lee Farman, said: “The Pumphouse is a theatre for the people and is dedicated to making its facility accessible and inclusive to all.
“We look forward to welcoming the community to our newly improved theatre.”
It comes after The Pump House revealed in March that it may have to close if it does not secure £750,000 for a new watertight, insulated roof.
So far, £1,398 has been raised via the JustGiving Page.
To make a donation visit https://bit.ly/3LWr55T.
The council’s funding has allowed for the side area of the building to be resurfaced to ensure easy access for people with disabilities.
As a result, the increased accessibility is expected to boost footfall from 18,000 to 20,000.
Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “The Pumphouse Theatre is not just a building, it's a community space where history, education and accessibility come together to create an exciting and inclusive arts venue.
“These improvements will help enhance this offer further.
“The disability-friendly improvements to the theatre also ensure that the theatre can confidently offer space to all users.”
The Pump House’s Raise the Roof campaign to raise money for a new roof also includes renovations inside the building.
Funding will also be used for additional seats in a new balcony area of the main theatre auditorium.
Other potential upgrades include a new multi-purpose art and rehearsal studio space with natural light sources and bigger dressing room that will support larger productions.
As part of its Raise the Roof fundraising campaign, the Pump House has launched a new membership scheme to give people the chance to enjoy perks and exclusive offers at the same time as supporting its work.
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