A bold new plan to breathe life back into one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most iconic buildings could see Burslem’s Queen’s Theatre reborn as Kilmister Halls – a major new music, arts and heritage venue inspired by legendary Motörhead frontman Lemmy.
The project, led by IFK Legacy CIC, aims to turn the Grade II-listed building into a vibrant cultural hub with a flexible auditorium, museum of Staffordshire music, theatre and music school, recording studio and even a replica of LA’s iconic Rainbow Bar and Grill.
The IFK Legacy team first proposed the idea in February 2024 and have since met with city council leaders including Jane Ashworth and Jon Rouse. With support from Re-Form Heritage, they have applied to the Architectural Heritage Fund for £15,000 to fund a viability study, with a decision expected by the end of July.
Funding bids will then be submitted to bodies such as the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Theatres Trust and Arts Council England, with an outline project cost of around £16 million.
The plans follow last month’s unveiling of a statue of Lemmy in Burslem’s Market Place, which drew hundreds of fans as part of the town’s growing rock revival.
The Queen’s Theatre, which dates back to 1911, has been closed for more than 25 years. A council-commissioned feasibility study – conducted before IFK Legacy’s involvement – estimated restoration costs at more than £12 million.
The report, produced by Arcadis Consulting with concept designs from Stoke-on-Trent-based Affinity Design and Management, identified urgent safety works to the interior totalling £326,000. The exterior is described as being in a ‘fair’ condition.
The redeveloped venue could host up to 1,500 people standing or 850 seated – meeting an identified gap in the city’s cultural offer – with flexible seating, improved sightlines and full accessibility including a lift and raised viewing areas for wheelchair users.
David Ovenden, of IFK Legacy, said: “We’ve had West End specialists up to assess the auditorium ceiling and we’re working with top architects Flanagan Lawrence, as well as acoustic and venue consultants. We want to bring the auditorium into the 21st century.”
The vision also includes a tribute to Lemmy, who was born in Burslem, with a museum showcasing his books and personal items, many of which have remained untouched since his death. The ‘museum of Staffordshire music’ could also celebrate Northern Soul, punk, Robbie Williams and more, as well as hosting visiting exhibitions.
Talks are ongoing with Motörhead’s management and the team also hopes to involve Robbie ‘at an early stage’. An event is planned for Burslem in August to build momentum.
IFK Legacy is seeking a long lease or virtual freehold rather than taking the asset from Stoke-on-Trent City Council. They hope that planning could be in place by September 2026, with the venue opening within five to six years.
David said: “We want to create a buzz – just like when Oasis played The Wheatsheaf. It’s not about making money, it’s about giving the people of Stoke-on-Trent something to be proud of.
“People who can’t afford to go to LA will be able to come to Burslem and experience something special.”
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, added: “All parties are committed to working together to bring Queen’s Theatre back into creative use. There is a huge amount of work that lies ahead but we have a roadmap, the first step of which is a full viability study and business plan.”
