Derry's Playhouse Theatre was handed over to building contractors on Monday so that refurbishment work on the site could commence.

The revamp for the theatre, costing £4.3 million is expected to be complete at the beginning of 2009.

Speaking to the Derry Journal, Niall McCaughan, General Manager of The Playhouse, said: "The work includes the complete refurbishment of the two ‘B1’ listed former primary schools, as well as the building of an extension at the back of the buildings incorporating lifts, stairs, new reception area, workshops space, refreshment areas, etc."

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Andrzej Blonski Architects won the restoration contract for the Playhouse following competitive interview by the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA).

Blonski Architects were responsible for the refurbishment of various UK theatres such as the Bristol Old Vic, the Theatre Royal in Plymouth and the Theatre and Art Gallery in Milton Keynes.

Their design for The Playhouse offers a strong modern architectural solution that is entirely appropriate and remains sympathetic to the conservation and environmental issues of the area.

The Playhouse was originally built in 1887 and is located on Artillery Street, inside the city's historic walls.

(LC/SP)