A historic theatre in Aberdeen is to benefit from repairs and the reinstatement of architectural features to its exterior after being awarded funding for the work.

The Tivoli Theatre Management Company (TTMC) will receive more than £500,000 as part of the Green Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) in order to undertake the improvements. First opened in 1872, the Grade A-listed venue's roof, masonry, windows and rainwater goods are to be repaired, while a number of the building's architectural detail will be reinstated.

Having fallen into a state of disrepair, the Tivoli was acquired last year by TTMC chair Brian Hendry, who pledged to bring the venue back into public use. Green THI board chair John Stewart said: "For many years now people have been calling for the Tivoli Theatre to be brought back to life and this announcement marks a huge step forward in achieving that.

"Brian Hendry has some very interesting and exciting plans for this wonderful old building and I look forward to seeing them take shape and the Tivoli returned to her former glory." The Green THI is a five-year conservation programme that will rejuvenate the city's Green area, with funding provided by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Aberdeen City Council and Scottish Enterprise, as well as Historic Scotland.