New pedestrian bridge marks key milestone in theatre development

A key milestone has been reached in the construction of the new Studio Theatre at The Hexagon.

A striking new pedestrian walkway is now in place which will give customers step free access from Queen’s Walk into the new venue and the existing adjoining theatre.

Significant progress has also been made on the creation of the new theatre space with the roof in place and the auditorium taking shape.

The new Studio Theatre will provide a performance and rehearsal space and enable more diverse programming, attract both existing and new audiences and strengthen The Hexagon’s role in the heart of the redeveloped Minster Quarter.

The pedestrian bridge will take visitors to a new main entrance, foyer and bar at the front of the building, which can be converted into rehearsal, workshop or meeting space.

The Studio Theatre will have a capacity of 200 seated or 300 standing with stalls and a gallery, perfect for comedy shows and bands.

Fully accessible lifts and toilets will be available on both levels with direct internal links to the main Hexagon theatre, allowing both venues to run together or independently of each other.

The development is also providing improved backstage areas for artists and crews and high-spec technical infrastructure which will attract quality productions of all sizes.

Council Leader Cllr Liz Terry, Lead Councillor for Culture and Leisure Cllr Jacopo Lanzoni, Chief Executive Jackie Yates and members of the project team, including main contractor Feltham Construction Ltd, marked the installation of the new pedestrian walkway this week.

Cllr Terry said:

“The new pedestrian bridge from Queen’s Walk will lead to a world of new artistic opportunities for residents, theatregoers and community art groups.

“The purpose-built new Studio Theatre will be fully accessible to everyone and will make The Hexagon easier to navigate for all visitors.

“It will provide meeting and rehearsal space for community use and the more intimate auditorium will attract a whole new range of acts and performers.

“The spectacular new Studio Theatre will sit proudly at the heart of the Minster Quarter development and will significantly enhance cultural provision in Reading.”

The construction of the new Studio Theatre is mostly government funded along with Council investment and has been designed by award winning Haworth Tompkins, internationally recognised specialists in theatre design. It is due to open in spring 2027.

Sustainability is fundamental to the project and links with the decarbonisation programme at The Hexagon where ageing gas boilers are being replaced with a ground source heat pump.