Greenwich Peninsula to Get Its Own 'National Theatre'
The Greenwich Peninsula is set to welcome a new cultural landmark with the approval of a 3,000-seat theatre, dubbed 'The Troubadour Greenwich Peninsula'. This development has been endorsed by local councillors, who envision it as a 'National Theatre' for the area.
The theatre will be situated next to the cable car terminal, on a site currently occupied by a coach park and site offices for the Silvertown Tunnel construction project. It will feature two 1,500-seat auditoriums and will be granted a 10-year lease on the site. Troubadour, the company behind the project, aims to open the theatre in February or March of next year.
The developer, Knight Dragon, plans to eventually build homes on the site. However, the project has faced some opposition from residents concerned about potential noise from the theatre and its visitors, drawing comparisons to the Ministry of Sound nightclub at Elephant & Castle. These concerns were addressed by Greenwich planners.
One resident, Sylvia Williams, a member of the Greenwich Millennium Village Residents' Association, expressed support for the project, emphasizing the need for cultural facilities to enrich community life rather than just adding to residential density. She did, however, raise valid concerns about the already challenging traffic situation for buses leaving North Greenwich station after events at the O2 and requested access for local schools and groups to be included in the permissions.
Troubadour's chief executive, Oliver Royds, assured residents that a 50p levy on each ticket would fund community initiatives, such as inviting schools to the theatre. He highlighted the success of a similar event with War Horse at Wembley Park Theatre, where Michael Morpugo gave a talk to a full audience from local schools.
The theatre design has also faced criticism for its 'boxy' appearance and lighting. However, supporters like Shooters Hill Green councillor Tamasin Rhymes expressed enthusiasm for the idea of a 'National Theatre' and the cultural benefits it will bring, including jobs and training.
David Gardner, a Labour councillor for the Greenwich Peninsula, praised the project as a significant innovation for the area, attracting tourists and locals alike. He acknowledged the design's 'boxy' nature but prioritized the greater good.
David Sullivan, a Labour councillor from Kidbrooke Village, shared his positive experience at the Wembley theatre and expressed pride in the prospect of a similar facility on the peninsula.
Justine Simons, London's deputy mayor for culture, welcomed the approval, emphasizing London's status as the theatre capital of the world and the potential of this new venue to enhance the city's creative district.
Laura Flanagan, from Knight Dragon, celebrated the theatre plan as a testament to the growing cultural ambitions of the district.
In addition to the theatre, councillors deferred an application for a 20-storey tower opposite the Ikea store, citing residents' concerns about the loss of green space.
The Greenwich Wire, a local news source, covered the meeting via webcast due to their usual in-person attendance policy.
