Wellington Embassy Theatre revamp worries

Some of the Embassy Theatre restoration amounts to desecration, a heritage group says.

Serious About Heritage Society secretary Michael Kelly said the 75-member group was deeply concerned about some of the "drastic" changes being made to the building, saying they were "entirely contrary to good conservation practice".

Such developments included what he called unnecessary earthquake strengthening, most notably the construction of a concrete floor effectively halving the auditorium.

The council has underwritten the makeover to the tune of $4.5 million.

But deputy mayor Alick Shaw defended the refurbishment process, saying it was "plain straight nonsense" to suggest seismic strengthening was unnecessary.

"We have got to ensure that we have a safe building. It is an essential part of doing the work."

The revamped theatre will host the world premiere of The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King.

- NZPA

Herald Feature: Lord of the Rings