Central Demolition is clearing the foyer and back offices of the Victorian theatre to make way for a new wing, including a new studio theatre and learning spaces.

The £19.4m redevelopment in the heart of the Gorbals has been designed by Bennetts Associates to secure the future of one of Scotland’s most iconic buildings and leading producing theatres.

Kier will start main building work in late October to transform the vulnerable 140-year-old, category B listed building into a new cultural venue for communities across Scotland.

The historic central auditorium will be restored while the new surrounding building will house a bar and improved rehearsal, learning and studio spaces.

Sean O’Callaghan, operations director, Kier Regional Building Scotland, said: “We have a wealth of experience in developing theatre and heritage projects and look forward to turning the vision into reality.

“Importantly, as with all the work we carry out, we will provide jobs for the local community by working with our supply chain to offer a range of diverse employment and training opportunities throughout this landmark project.”

Several John Mossman statues salvaged from the original theatre will be reinstated

The redevelopment is a 2-year construction project and the building will re-open in 2021.