Reducing energy
We are reviewing how energy is used and improving controls, maintenance and working practices. Efficiency is considered whenever equipment or contracts are renewed.
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Sustainability at the Pavilion
Practical action for a greener theatre, a cared-for heritage building and a positive contribution to Gorleston.
A greener future for a 125-year-old theatre
Using less, caring more and leaving a positive legacy
Sustainability at the Pavilion is practical and rooted in place. We are working to reduce the resources we use, care for our historic theatre and ensure that performances and visits create lasting value for Gorleston.
What we are doing now
Small decisions, made consistently
There is no single quick fix for a busy heritage theatre. Our approach is to make environmental responsibility part of everyday decisions, while building the evidence needed for larger improvements.
Cutting waste
We are eliminating avoidable single-use plastics, using paperless tickets as standard and prioritising repair, reuse and repurposing for sets, props, costumes and equipment.
Buying better
Supplier contracts are being reviewed for resource efficiency, packaging, delivery impacts, durability and whole-life value.
Greener productions
We subscribe to the Theatre Green Book and use its framework for our in-house productions, considering materials, transport and reuse from the start.
Trying, learning and changing course
What our rooftop bees taught us
For three years we hosted beehives on the Pavilion roof. It was a genuine attempt to support pollinators and bring nature closer to our work, but the bees did not thrive in the exposed rooftop setting.
The hives have now been removed. We would rather be honest about that outcome than present every experiment as a success. It taught us that environmental projects need the right location, specialist advice and a plan for long-term care — lessons we will carry into future work.
Heritage and community
A theatre sustained for the next generation
We balance energy improvement with protection of our Edwardian building’s character, choosing changes that are effective, maintainable and appropriate to its fabric.
Our work also supports a year-round cultural economy: local artists, staff, volunteers, businesses and audiences all help the Pavilion and seafront thrive.
A positive visit to Gorleston
Visitors can help by choosing a lower-impact journey or digital ticket, sorting waste carefully, respecting the beach and neighbourhood, and supporting local independent businesses.
Our travel information and guides to places to eat and stay locally can help you plan your visit.
Building on our progress
What comes next
We are proud of the work underway, but we do not claim to have finished. Our next priorities are to:
- strengthen our energy, waste, water and purchasing baselines;
- identify measurable priorities using the Theatre Green Book across productions, operations and the building;
- build relevant environmental expectations into supplier reviews and new contracts;
- share learning with staff, volunteers, visiting companies and partners; and
- report progress honestly, including challenges and work still to do.
Our formal commitment
Read the principles, responsibilities and review process behind this work in our Regenerative Tourism Policy.