A new theatre space for Twickenham reached the half-way point of its construction today, with a topping out ceremony on the roof.

The community building, opposite the station, will seat 320 people and has been designed for theatre, cinema and conferences.

Works are due to be completed by April and council leader Lord True said it is “one more step” for the improvement of Twickenham.

He said: “This significant regeneration project is going to bring a community heart to a piece of land that has been derelict for so long.

“Over the past few months residents will have been watching the building go up, and it is now taking shape.

“When it opens, this new building will bring more entertainment to people of all ages in the borough, giving arts and culture a welcome boost.”

The venue is being built by St James and will include 110 new homes, including 11 shared ownership.

Sean Ellis, chairman of St James, said: “We have worked closely with the council to develop the community building, which plays a key part in regenerating this important brownfield site, which was derelict for many years.”