The Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch which has been Grade II listed to mark the jubilee
(Picture: Historic England)An East London theatre is one of six historic sites that have been Grade II listed to mark the Jubilee.
The Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch was recognised by Historic England alongside buildings including a Birmingham church and a west country hotel.
The theatre opened in 1953 – the year of the coronation which inspired its name - and its purpose-built building is regarded as a classic example of 1970s design.
Chief Executive Mathew Russell said: “We’re so proud that Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch has been Grade II listed, and to celebrate such a very special occasion.
“The theatre is a much loved and well utilised asset, at the heart of a changing community. This is an amazing opportunity to recognise its rich heritage, and as we approach our 70th anniversary, to help ensure an extraordinary and special building can continue to be enjoyed and cherished by many more millions of people into the future.”
The building has been visited by the Queen who celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2003. Also listed is the Imperial Hotel in Stroud which opened in 1863 as part of a boom in local tourism and was refurbished in 1950 when the then-Princess Elizabeth visited.
All Saints Church in Shard End, Birmingham, was the first church built in the city after the Second World War and one of the first to consecrated during the Queen’s reign.
Heritage Minister Nigel Huddleston said: “These historic sites provide a fantastic opportunity to reflect on how much life in the UK has changed during Her Majesty the Queen’s 70-year reign. Listing them as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations is a fitting way to pay tribute to the longevity of her service.”
