Historic Salford theatre and Blackpool synagogue among lots at next Pugh auction

Victoria Theatre, Salford

A dilapidated theatre in Salford and a former Blackpool synagogue will feature among 100 lots at Pugh’s next North West property auction at the AJ Bell Stadium in Salford on September 6.

The Victoria Theatre on Great Clowes Street in Salford was opened in 1900, before it was redeveloped as a cinema, and then as a bingo hall, finally falling into disuse 10 years ago.

The Grade II-listed 3,000-seater building was designed by renowned architect Bertie Crewe, who also designed Manchester’s Palace Theatre and several London theatre venues.

The 0.3 acre site will be auctioned with a £350,000 guide price.

In Blackpool, the historic former synagogue on Leamington Road is to be auctioned with a guide price of £125,000.

Built in 1916, the landmark Grade II-listed Blackpool United Hebrew Synagogue was deconsecrated and closed in 2012.

Despite objections from the council due to the building’s architectural significance, planning consent was eventually granted last year to convert part of the building into five two-bedroomed flats, with car parking.

Paul Thompson, managing director of Pugh auction house, said: “As a specialist in selling interesting and historic properties at auction, it is always a privilege to witness buildings that once held great community significance, as they move into a new chapter of their existence.

“We have already seen a great deal of interest in both the former synagogue and the theatre from potential buyers. In the hands of the right developers both sites could be regenerated and continue as important regional assets.”

Established 26 years ago, Pugh is one of the largest auctioneers outside of London and was acquired by property consultant Eddisons in 2016.

Blackpool United Hebrew Synagogue

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