The Neptune could be back in action by spring 2011
Since Rob Brydon's spoof TV host Keith Barrett used his inimitably gormless charm to bring the curtain down on Liverpool’s Neptune theatre at the end of May 2005, the Grade II-listed building which opened as Crane’s Music Hall in 1913 has added more twists and turns to its already turbulent history.
Initially intended to reopen as part of the City of Culture 2008 campaign, it was left in limbo thanks to a dispute between leaseholders Hanover Estates and the City Council, which had promised to refurbish the site at a cost of £700,000 if they could agree terms on a new 125-year lease.
Local newspaper reports suggested the Estates director, local businessman David Ramsey, had been obstructing the council from accessing the venue to initiate the improvement works, but both sides now appear to have reached a settlement.
"It's been nothing short of a travesty for Liverpool that the Neptune Theatre has been in mothballs these past five years," said Council Leader Joe Anderson, who expects the anticipated eight-month redevelopment process to begin by the end of August 2010.
"The Neptune was a vital stepping stone in Liverpool's comedy and theatre land, providing countless people of all ages down the years with their first experience of performing at a major city centre venue.
"Until recently it was a much used venue for community groups across the city with a well-established niche for comedy acts, and its absence has been sorely felt by performers and audiences alike.
"I'm delighted we've been able to agree terms over building consent and can now forge ahead with bringing back to life one of our most important cultural jewels."
Although no formal figures appear to have been finalised, a statement said surveyors would "reassess the length of the lease" of the encompassing Hanover House structure.
Would-be operators are being invited to tender for the management of the theatre between now and summer 2011.
Ramsey has the lease for the next 38 years, having run the House since 1985 and performed at the Neptune during his youth.
"This agreement is fantastic news and I am pleased that Councillor Anderson has taken the initiative to resolve some of the issues holding this redevelopment back," he responded.
"I have a deep personal affection for this theatre and have great childhood memories. No-one will be happier than me on the day it reopens.’"
The Music Hall originally sold records and instruments, but became known as Crane’'s Theatre after amateur dramatists held performances there.
The council renamed it in honour of the city's maritime heritage when they bought it in 1967, although protestors had to persuade them not to close it due to falling crowds in 1993.
In 1997 it was officially dedicated to the memory of Beatles manager Brian Epstein, going on to host shows by Steve Coogan, Lily Savage and Lenny Henry.
