Leith Theatre removed from the Theatres at Risk Register as restoration gathers pace

There was good news for one of Leith's best-loved buildings this summer. Leith Theatre has been removed from the UK's Theatres at Risk Register after significant progress towards its long-awaited restoration.

The national advisory body Theatres Trust confirmed the decision when it published its 2026 register. The register lists 39 theatres across the UK under threat of closure, redevelopment or severe decay, and Leith Theatre was one of three to be released from it this year.

Leith Theatre Trust has secured significant funding pledges towards restoring the B-listed building and has appointed a design team to begin the major capital project, with Theatres Trust providing expert support along the way. A 50-year lease from the City of Edinburgh Council gives the trust long-term security.

Lynn Morrison, chief executive of Leith Theatre Trust since 2016, said a key part of her work had been to build sustainability and a commercial future for the venue. Being on the register gave the theatre a platform, she said, and it now has momentum. Coming off the register was not a shock, she added, as signing the lease coincided with the theatre being taken on as a National Lottery heritage project. The trust's next application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, due in November, could unlock £4.2 million, with match funding expected from the city's visitor levy.

While the building is not yet fully wind and watertight, there is still scope for pop-ups and meanwhile bookings. In July, the theatre threw open its doors for an open day to celebrate its 94th birthday, inviting people to explore the building, meet the architects leading the refurbishment and enjoy a bit of nostalgia, and probably cake.

In October, Irvine Welsh, a long-time supporter, helped raise funds with a day that included a performance of the stage adaptation of Porno, his sequel to Trainspotting, followed by an evening where he joined local DJs on the decks.

For generations of Leithers who remember gigs and nights out in the hall, the progress is a welcome sign that the theatre's best days may still be ahead.

Leith Theatre is at 28-30 Ferry Road, behind Leith Library. Upcoming events and ways to support the restoration are on the Leith Theatre Trust website.