Bard for good: encore for Shakespearean theatre
An artist’s impression of the development with the theatre as its centrepiece. Image: Pringle Brandon Perkins+Will
It is referred to by some as the Holy Grail of British theatre because it is believed to have been the long lost stage where The Bard’s star-crossed lovers’ eyes first met.
Now the well-preserved remains of a theatre where archaeologists believe Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet was first performed will be exhibited permanently after developers were given the green light to build a new tower next door.
Hackney Council’s planning subcommittee tonight (Wednesday) granted Plough Yard Developments Ltd permission to erect a 40-storey residential skyscraper with bar, restaurant and shop space in Plough Yard, off Curtain Road, Shoreditch.
The building will tower above what is left of the Curtain Theatre, which dates back to the 16th century and lies three metres below ground.
The remains, described by conservation body English Heritage as “exceptionally well preserved”, will be put on display behind a sunken glass wall as part of plans by architects Pringle Brandon Perkins+Will, whose spokesman said:
“We intend to work with the local authority to ensure that the archaeological find becomes a vibrant focus for the local community, as well as one of Hackney’s principal attractions.
“We will be exploring how to achieve this during the coming months.”
Experts from English Heritage told the council the remains “could be ascribed international levels of significance”, adding: “At present Hackney has no scheduled ancient monuments which is a great shame and belies the historic significance of the borough.”
Objectors who responded to a consultation about the development complained that the skyscraper was out of keeping with the surrounding area and said they feared it would block sunlight to nearby properties.
Thirty nine units of affordable housing will be provided as part of the scheme.
The planning subcommitee, chaired by Councillor Vincent Stops, voted unanimously to approve the plans.