During the past 12 months Burnley Empire Trust (BET) have been working towards creating a new destination for the people of Burnley and East Lancashire. The Empire will be a new centre of activity for local cultural and creative communities as well as a space for learning, socialising and collaboration for everyone. This is not just about restoring beautiful architecture; this is about building a new space that through its work will support local businesses and people and bring prosperity to Burnley, both in economic and social terms if the building is stabilised within the next 2 years.
Sadly due to the Covid-19 crisis potential funding streams for essential stabilisation works are no longer available for this year which inevitably puts the heritage of the building at major risk of being lost, for the next generation of Burnley and beyond.
Using funds raised online BET propose to carry out essential works to stabilise parts of the roof specifically targeting the most vulnerable areas and ultimately enabling an extension of the life of the building. This work will not only save the building but also pave the way for public access.
Donations will go towards covering the following essential costs:
- Asbestos removal within the auditorium which will enable the emergency works to commence
- Safety net to be installed inside the auditorium to increase safety elements and prevent falling plaster
- Roof stabilisation repairs targeting the most vulnerable of areas currently suffering from water ingress
By supporting this Crowdfunder appeal you will be directly helping to save the iconic building and helping towards repurposing the Burnley Empire. THANK YOU in advance for any donations made towards kick starting theses essential emergency works. Any funds raised over our target will go directly towards funding the next phase of the restoration.
BET Director & Chair Sophie Gibson with Jack Dee at the annual Theatres Trust, Theatres at Risk launch. "Nothing beats the immediacy of performing a stand up gig in a theatre.." - Jack Dee, Theatres Trust Ambassador.
World touring Magicians were no strangers to Burnley Empire including Houdini, Dr Walford Bodie and Chung Ling Soo. Not only did they astonish Burnley crowds, but they created nothing short of amazement and often returned to perform again at the Empire. - Magician Dynamo with BET Director Shaun McCree.
Last year tickets to visit the Burnley Empire for Heritage Open Days sold out online within 1 minute!! Due to the discovery of asbestos distributed by vandals an alternative event was hosted at 160 Cafe by BET, supported by National Trust and Construction Design Manager, James Woolgrove.