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Major investments from the ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ, Arts Council England’s Creative Foundations Fund and a generous donor, will enable critical improvements to Turner Sims. This will create a more accessible, inclusive and sustainable music venue for audiences, artists, students, staff and community partners.

The project will modernise essential infrastructure, improve accessibility throughout the building and help secure the long-term future of one of the region's much-loved cultural destinations. 

Originally opened in 1974, Turner Sims serves tens of thousands of visitors each year through concerts, learning programmes, community activity and venue hire.

The improvements will remove physical barriers that currently limit access for disabled audiences, performers and staff, helping more people participate fully in music and cultural life. 

The project includes:

• Replacement of the venue's ageing goods lift with a new accessible evacuation lift, improving reliability and providing step-free access to stage level. 
• New step-free routes between the entrance, auditorium, backstage and staff areas. 
• Creation of a new accessible gender-neutral toilet. 
• Improvements to backstage facilities, including an accessible green room and artist access ramp.
• Enhanced signage, wayfinding and entrance controls to improve the visitor experience.
• Energy-efficient upgrades, including modern equipment and LED lighting within refurbished spaces. 
   

The project will protect Turner Sims from the operational risks associated with ageing infrastructure, reducing maintenance costs and helping ensure that performances, events and community activities can continue without disruption. It will also enable the venue to welcome a wider range of artists, audiences and commercial clients, supporting its long-term financial and environmental sustainability. 

Delivered in two phases between 2026 and 2028, the Turner Sims Estates Project represents the first step in a wider vision to transform the venue into a fully accessible cultural hub for ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ, Hampshire and the Solent.

By creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment, the project will help ensure that everyone can experience the joy of live music for years to come.