Sustainability & Lancaster Grand Theatre

Lancaster Grand Theatre Sustainability

Lancaster Grand Theatre recognises the importance of sustainability. We continually strive to be as sustainable as possible and have adopted and continue to advance the principals contained in the Theatres Trust Green Book

The approach advocated by the Green Book considers three key elements:  Productions, Operations and Buildings. A summary of the investments we have made, and how we approach our commitment is provided below: We recognise that advances in materials and approaches are always being made and endeavour to keep pace and continual improvement.

Productions

Materials used for set construction are mainly sourced from our own off-site store which contains a wide mix of scenery and props that are re-used and re-cycled repeatedly.  Apart from redecoration (where possible using part used paint cans), we do not allow modification to our scenery flats. Props and costumes are continually reused.

Operations

Working practices ensure lights are switched off when key areas are not in use.  Instant water heaters are used in the coffee bars to minimise energy use.  Waste is separated internally and externally to ensure we are able to recycle as much as possible. We recognise the importance of our ‘Carbon Literacy’ and will invest in training to ensure trustees and staff procure sustainably and are able to identify and drive opportunities to reduce the amount of material we use, and re-use / re-cycle as much as possible.

Buildings

As recently as 20 years ago, the theatre had very inefficient boilers and no insulation in the roof space.  It now has:

·         Modern, 90% efficient, condensing boilers with an intelligent control system which optimises heat input into the building in relation to outside temperatures and performance times

·         12 inches of mineral wool insulation in the roof space

·         Low energy LED theatre light fixtures on stage and in front of house.

Toilet lighting is controlled by sensors, and water is heated locally at each sink only as and when required with flow controlled taps.  Within the restrictions of the heritage listing, all external doors have been draft sealed and several are also soundproof.  The recent upgrade to the façade included replacement double glazed windows at all levels.