Scaffolding has been erected throughout the back half of the theatre in preparation for the ceiling replacement and painting.

Council development and community services manager Anthony Newland said, once complete, the town would see a whole new building with great potential.

“From what I’ve been told, it would cost around $4 million to replace,”?Mr Newland said.

“For a $500,000 refurbishment and the need for fire safety work, it is of reasonable value.

“Once the doors open people will start finding uses.

“It’s been around since the 1930s, when it was used for debutante balls, then from there to the 1960s it was used as a cinema.”

“It has seen its high times and its low times when interest has waned.

“But I think once it is brought up to modern standards, it may well be that the current generation would make good use of it.”

Nash Bros Constructions Athenium project manager Matt Doolan said local sub-contractors would be provided with as much work as possible, with plumbing and carpentry already sourced.

Work on the removal of the current ceiling began yesterday with an electrician expected to start work on new lighting wiring from today.

Ceiling resheeting would begin as early as next week, Mr Doolan said.

The project is scheduled to be completed by mid-September.