The Alhambra Theatre Trust has lodged a planning application for a new performing arts centre, including a state of the art 200-seat studio theatre, arthouse cinema, rehearsal rooms and shop and restaurant space.

If approved, the plans will create a permanent base for the Alhambra Stage and Dance School in a long-vacant building opposite the theatre.

Called the Ironmongers Studio, the development’s design will be influenced by the world famous Wilton’s Music Hall in London, with promises the arts space will be carefully woven into the building, retaining its century-long historical significance to the town.

A statement said: “The Alhambra Theatre Trust’s long-held ambitions to create a 21st century version of a traditional repertory company, similar to that which creates and presents new and innovative work at Dundee’s Rep, could be realised within The Ironmonger’s Studio.

“The repertory theatre’s work, alongside developing new work, could also be the base for an annual summer series similar to that presented so successfully by Pitlochry Festival Theatre, an annual event with significant tourist appeal.”