Work has now started on demolishing the Studio Theatre at Royal Holloway, University of London, which is making way for the construction of a new £3.5m cultural complex.

First opened in 1981, the Studio Theatre was originally built at a cost of £50,000 but is now being replaced by a new building designed by London-based Foster Wilson Architects.

The facility aims to provide an "intimate and flexible space for 21st century theatre makers" and will feature a curved, flexible gallery overlooking a central space.

A newly-configured backstage area will comprise a workshop, design space, dressing rooms an two rehearsal rooms. The building will be linked with Sutherland House by a glass foyer.

Dr Gill Bush-Bailey, director of theatre development, said: "We look forward to realising the fantastic new space in the certain knowledge that students will have an amazing space in which to create new work in the future."

The new theatre is due to open at Royal Holloway, University of London in 2013.

Details: www.rhul.ac.uk