IPSWICH'S Wolsey Theatre will have a new roof for its new season.Work on the new roof for the 27-year-old building starts on Monday and should see the end of leaks which have plagued the building in recent years.

IPSWICH'S Wolsey Theatre will have a new roof for its new season.

Work on the new roof for the 27-year-old building starts on Monday and should see the end of leaks which have plagued the building in recent years.

The work is being carried out after the New Wolsey was given a capital grant by its funding partners, Ipswich council and Arts Council England, East.

Scaffolding is already going up around the theatre, which has been a landmark in Civic Drive since it opened in 1978.

Theatre board chairman Peter Purves said: "The New Wolsey has been a huge success story since it opened its doors almost five years ago.

"Now we need a building that will keep pace with our ambitious plans.

"This summer's refurbishment work represents an important first step in our development plans."

Chief executive Sarah Holmes added: "We are delighted that Ipswich Borough Council and the Arts Council are enabling this essential work to go ahead.

"By replacing the roof, improving backstage access and installing new theatre equipment, we will be significantly improving our facilities both for artists and the public."

The work should be completed during the summer while the theatre itself takes a break.

However the coffee shop and box office will remain open throughout.

The new roof should be in place by the time the autumn season opens on September 15.

Ipswich council is contributing £350,000 in capital grants towards the project and leisure spokeswoman Judy Terry said: "The Council recognises the excellent work of the theatre and its contribution to making Ipswich a vibrant town and regional cultural centre."