Stadttheater Biel must be renovated
According to a statement from the city, a comprehensive analysis of the state of Biel's municipal theater has shown that it may no longer be possible to maintain operations for the 2016/17 season due to a lack of personal safety.
Subject to approval by the city council on April 21, 2016, the municipal council approved a commitment credit of CHF 2.425 million for the urgent maintenance work so that the necessary work can begin before summer 2017 as planned.
According to the city authorities, the Stadttheater Biel has not been extensively renovated since 1979. It has not been adapted to today's requirements in terms of design or technology. Due to the latent dangers and urgency, only a small part of the immediate measures regarding fire protection and personal safety were implemented in the summer and fall of 2014 to maintain performance operations in 2014/2015.
The stage and building services are also very outdated, and at least some of the electrical installations need to be replaced to ensure that operations can be maintained over the next few years.
As a publicly accessible building, the Stadttheater Biel is also to be adapted to meet current standards regarding accessibility. In addition to minor adjustments in the entrance area and in the disabled WC, additional wheelchair spaces must be created in the audience area. The orchestra pit must also have barrier-free access, which can be achieved by means of a ramp.
