The venue could have a capacity of around 500 people
A temporary theatre with space for around 500 people is set to open until midnight every night, with permission now sought for a licence to operate next to the Marble Arch.
Hit productions, such as Burlesque, have already been confirmed for the proposed venue, which will be open at the site until summer 2028.
A planning application for the venture has already been approved by Westminster City Council. However, a decision on whether to grant the premises a licence will be made by a licensing sub-committee this week.
If approved, the theatre will be open to the public from 9am until 12.30am every day. The theatre would also be allowed to sell alcohol to be consumed on or off the site until midnight.
The theatre will be located on the grassed area on the western side of the traffic island, on the north-eastern corner of Hyde Park which is opposite Marble Arch. Hartshorn – Hook Productions Ltd, say the temporary venue will be in place until summer 2028.
A planning report, on behalf of the applicant, said: “This scheme will deliver a world class temporary theatre design that will attract people to the underutilised Marble Arch site and will promote and enhance the cultural offer of Westminster as a whole.”
The applicant has also managed 99-year-old The Arts Theatre, located in the West End, for the last 12 years. The Arts Theatre, which is touted as one of the most successful independent theatres in the world, closed for a 24-month refurbishment at the end of last year.
“The company intend to use the theatre to continue the formidable legacy of The Arts Theatre, beginning with a transfer of their sell out production of Choir of Man. The critically acclaimed production has been resident at The Arts Theatre for the last 3 years, achieving 96% capacity throughout 2024,” the report added.
Several objections to the application were submitted to the council. The South East Bayswater Residents Association said that it “strongly objects” to the plans over concerns it would create a “potential nuisance” in the surrounding area.
In a written objection, a person representing the group said: “The South East Bayswater Residents Association (SEBRA) strongly objects to this New Premises Licence application on the grounds of potential nuisance within the surrounding area. SEBRA’s is a recognised Amenity Society by Westminster City Council and we have members living nearby to Marble Arch. Further, an application of this scope could lead to impact over a wider area.”
The Metropolitan Police also raised concerns over several of the licensing conditions in the application. It has asked for more clarification over the sale of alcohol and the use of the venue as a theatre.
Westminster City Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee will hear the application on Thursday (April 30).
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