Cornerstone refurbishment nominated for regional award
It was announced this week that the newly renovated Cornerstone Theatre, Sutton, is up for an award at a the EEM Building Communities Awards.
Funded by the Council’s Future High Streets Fund, in partnership with Academy Transformation Trust Further Education, the theatre at Sutton Community Academy was fully refurbished in 2025. The project, completed by Miller Knight, is now a finalist in the EEM Building Communities Awards for Refurbishment Project of the Year.
Since the improvement works, which saw new dressing rooms, a green room, foyer and box office as well as a complete refurbishment of the auditorium, the theatre has provided a fantastic facility for students at the college and members of the community. The multi-functional community orientated space now allows residents and visitors to Sutton to watch professional theatre performances, cinematic experiences, music and comedy nights as well as local productions.
Cornerstone will welcome the first professional production in February with the one-woman show ‘Where is Mrs Christie?’ based on the 11-day disappearance of Agatha Christie on 7 February.
Councillor Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said:
“Cornerstone is a fantastic community asset that we have been really proud to champion and help secure funding for. This award recognises how much of a difference the project has made to the theatre but also to the wider area. The theatre refurbishment will open up a new world of culture and arts to Sutton, Ashfield, and beyond.
“Several fantastic trial events have taken place, and we can’t wait for the full programme to start in February. Having a state-of-the-art venue here in Ashfield, accessible to communities that might not have the means to access other venues, is so valuable. This will boost the local night-time economy, town centre footfall, as well giving residents access to great shows.”
The EEM Building Communities Awards celebrate excellence across the construction and built environment sector, recognising organisations and projects that deliver meaningful social, economic, and environmental impact.
Managing Director at Miller Knight, Matthew Flower commented:
“The transformation of the Cornerstone Theatre has created a truly immersive, future-ready space that will provide long-term value for students and the wider community. It’s been a complex refurbishment project delivered through close collaboration, and we’re proud to have played a part in bringing this fantastic facility to life.”
Winners will be announced at the EEM Building Communities Awards ceremony in March.
Posted on 15 January 2026