Major improvement works – including the removal of asbestos panels – at Ipswich’s Regent Theatre could take place this summer, it has emerged.

Entertainment bosses in the town say the improvements, if given the green light by planners, would add to the experience of customers at the St Helen’s Street venue.

The proposal for the Grade II listed building, which has been sent to Ipswich Borough Council’s planning department, includes plans for the refurbishment and restoration of the ceiling in the foyer, vestibule and crush hall.

There are also plans for secondary glazing units for the changing room.

If it is approved then the work will take place between July and September, when there are no scheduled shows.

Gordon Mole, head of cultural services at Ipswich Borough Council, said: “With ever-growing audiences and bigger shows, there is never a good time to close the theatre but this is the best time as the summer holidays are traditionally quieter. This work, which involves installing air conditioning and a better heating system for the comfort of our customers as well as minor restoration, shows our commitment to improving East Anglia’s biggest and best entertainment venue.

“We are confident people will have an even better experience when they come back to the Regent this autumn.”

It is expected that town planners will have made a decision on whether to approve the works by the start of July.

For more information about the application, or to have your say on it, please visit www.ipswich.gov.uk