04 Sep 2026
The final phase of a £277,000 transformation of the Alban Arena’s seating is now complete, with all 885 auditorium seats replaced.
Following the first phase of the project in 2025, which saw 385 new seats installed in the circle, the second phase has now seen the remaining 500 seats in the stalls replaced, alongside the Arena’s tiered bleacher system.
The project has been delivered through a joint investment by theatre owners SADC and operator Everyone Active.
The latest phase has also introduced LED aisle lighting and increased the number of flat-floor wheelchair spaces from seven to 10, and the venue’s overall capacity has now increased from 850 to 902.
Everyone Active also invested a further £50,000 in improvements to the Arena’s audience toilets and backstage facilities.
Theatre contract manager Jo Ditch said: “It’s fantastic to see the project now complete. The new seating provides a much more comfortable experience for audiences, while the LED aisle lighting and increase in wheelchair spaces will make the auditorium more accessible for visitors.
“Importantly, the work has also increased the Arena’s capacity, meaning we can welcome even more people to enjoy the fantastic programme of shows coming to St Albans.
“With some brilliant names coming to the Arena over the coming months, from major comedy acts to music and family entertainment, we’re really looking forward to audiences seeing the improvements for themselves.”
Cllr Helen Campbell, chair of SADC public realm committee, said: “This is a substantial investment we have made with our partners Everyone Active to greatly improve the experience of watching a show at the Alban Arena. I am sure all our theatre goers will be impressed by the new seating.
“These enhancements are another demonstration of our commitment along with Everyone Active to provide our residents with first class cultural and leisure facilities.”
