THE stage is set for the multi-million pound transformation of the Octagon Theatre.

Developers Wilmott Dixon have started construction on the major redevelopment of the theatre in Bolton town centre.

The work has meant the closure of the pavement and part of the road in front of the building in Howell Croft South.

The Octagon Reimagined project ­— the first part of the town's masterplan ­— will transform the building, update backstage facilities, increase accessibility and much more

Chief executive of the theatre Roddy Gauld said: "This is a momentous day in our ambitious plans to transform the theatre.

"We are delighted to be working with Wilmott Dixon and to entrust them with the Octagon.

"At the end of the project we will have a building that is welcoming and accessible for more people to enjoy, and will provide world class facilities to ensure the future of theatre being made in Bolton.

"This is an exciting time in Bolton with the regeneration of the town centre and we are thrilled to be part of one of the first projects in the town’s master plan ­— the future is looking very bright in Bolton."

The majority of the £10 million has already been secured from Bolton Council and Arts Council England along with trust and foundations, businesses and major donors but there is still an ongoing fundraising campaign to raise to the final £700,000.

Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Linda Thomas, said: "We are delighted that work is now starting on redeveloping the Octagon which will further raise its and Bolton’s profile. It provides a superb arts and cultural resource for the borough and the theatre is also an important part of our masterplan to redevelop the town centre.

"The Octagon has been providing a fantastic service for 50 years, producing high calibre theatre productions and doing much-valued educational and community work. The new facilities will make it even more accessible and secure its place in the hearts of generations to come, not just with people living in Bolton but the many visitors which it attracts to our town."

Ian Tabbron, senior relationship manager, North for the Arts Council added: "The Arts Council is very pleased to be supporting the Octagon’s redevelopment. It will provide the communities of Bolton and Greater Manchester with a theatre fit for the 21st century and encourage many more and different people to visit and experience all that the Octagon has to offer."

This redevelopment is described as being the most comprehensive in the theatre’s history.

While the building work is taking place, the Octagon will still have productions taking place across Bolton. The theatre is set to reopen in early 2020.

To find out more about the public fundraising appeal visit octagonbolton.co.uk/reimagined.