R Durtnell & Sons Ltd, the contractor working on the major refurbishment of Brighton Dome, Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre, has stopped work on site and is putting together proposals for a company voluntary arrangement. 

We have taken back the site and made it secure. We are committed to completing the refurbishment of these unique buildings to protect their long-term future in the cultural heart of the city. 

Over the coming days we’ll be exploring practical options for continuing and completing these essential restoration works as soon as possible and taking forward the wider Royal Pavilion Estate project.

Royal Pavilion Estate includes the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, Royal Pavilion Garden, Brighton Dome Concert Hall, Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre.

About the project

Brighton Dome Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre refurbishment is the first phase of a wider project to re-affirm Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Estate as a key cultural destination by equipping it for a sustainable future.

Our longer-term vision aims to reunite the historic Estate created by George IV in the early 19th century to create a centre for heritage, culture and the performing arts which reflects the unique spirit of Brighton & Hove.

The project will develop, deepen and broaden the cultural tourism offer of Brighton & Hove and significantly contribute to the city’s cultural and economic wellbeing. It is anticipated that the revitalised Royal Pavilion Estate will support 1,241 FTE jobs and have an economic impact of up to £68 million.

Our refurbishment will transform the Grade 1 listed Brighton Dome Corn Exchange, formerly the Prince Regent’s Riding House, which has the widest span timber frame roof in the country, and the Grade 2 listed Studio Theatre. The project will restore previously hidden heritage features as well as provide increased capacity seating, a magnificent new viewing gallery and a creative space for artists to rehearse and develop work.

Major improvements to the Studio Theatre - once a supper room - will include balcony seating, new bar facilities and a street level café opening out onto New Road.

Since construction work began in February 2017, the project has experienced several unforeseen issues on the historic site. A Quaker burial ground was uncovered in August 2017, with human remains excavated by a team of archaeologists and structural issues have been discovered with the Corn Exchange’s 200-year old wooden frame and roof trusses. 

Find out more about the Royal Pavilion Estate.