The owners of the building, the Coroneo family, revealed they have big plans for the heritage listed building when a representative addressed the Upper Hunter Shire Council economic development and tourism committee last month.

After announcing plans for a $200,000 renovation for the building last May and the approval of a $100,000 funding grant from the NSW Heritage Office, the roof has been repaired on the building.

According to Upper Hunter Shire councillor and economic development and tourism committee chairman Michael Johnsen, the owners have significant plans to upgrade the building and return it to its former glory.

“The owners are keen to take the theatre building back to its original design with some modern changes,” Cr Johnsen said.

He said although they were still in the planning stage, the owners had highlighted their wish to involve the community in the project as they are aware of the sense of ownership in the building by the local Scone community.

In terms of time frames, Cr Johnsen said Mr Coroneo has a goal to hold his 60th birthday party in the totally refurbished building in three years time.

“This is quite exciting for Scone.

“The theatre building has been laying relatively idle for the best part of 10 years,” Cr Johnsen said.

“I’d like the public to remember that the current owners inherited this building as it is, they didn’t create it, so let’s work with them to help return it to its former glory and appreciate the owners’ commitment to the town through the upgrade of this particular building.”