Theatre to open in former Debenhams in Westfield White City

A former Debenhams store in west London is set to be converted into a 600-seat theatre despite concerns from some residents.

Capital Theatre will open with Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story Live on Stage this autumn at the Shepherd’s Bush Westfield shopping centre.

Licencing was granted in February despite objections that drunken people would cause disruption and again when the planning application was submitted but this week’s meeting unanimously approved the plans.

Planning officers, who recommended the change of use said the show would be an immersive experience where visitors would “only be able to dine within the proposed development in combination with viewing the show”.

According to the LDRS, contributions of £275,000 have been agreed to be paid by the applicant to the Law Enforcement Team, CCTV and other local improvements.

There were four objections submitted to Hammersmith and Fulham council’s licensing committee in February.

One person with two young children wrote: “I understand people need to have a release, time to have a drink, however the limit is when I am threatened at my own house. I would feel much safer with less drunk people around, not more.”

The venue was granted permission to show plays until 12.30am Monday to Sunday and to stay open until 1am.

Sue Dowling, a partner at Blandy & Blandy, representing the applicant told the licensing meeting that while there would be some dancing after the show, this would allow for a more gradual dispersal of attendees rather than a mass exodus.

Speaking at the time, Karl Sydow and Adam Kenwright, who are behind the venture told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) they were “thrilled” with the approval “and look forward to joining the Westfield London and Hammersmith and Fulham communities”.