The cost of redeveloping Perth Theatre has soared by more than £1.5 million.
Horsecross Arts, which is behind the ambitious regeneration scheme, revealed that the total price of the project has risen from around £15m to £16.6m.
The new calculations follow a review of designs and costs.
The group’s chief executive Gwilym Gibbons said that work on site had been hit by delays, but was now ready to begin soon.
The theatre is still scheduled to reopen in 2017.
Perth and Kinross Council has pledged extra funding to keep the long-awaited development on track. Councillors agreed to contribute a further £1.53m of financial support.
This brings the amount Horsecross Arts has now pledged for the long-awaited development to £15.1m from project partners including the council, Creative Scotland, the Gannochy Trust, the Heritage Lottery Fund, as well as trusts, individuals and other supporters.
Horsecross, which also runs Perth Concert Hall, said it would “work hard” to raise the extra £1.5m needed to ensure the new 200-capacity venue was fully equipped and furnished.
Mr Gibbons said: “As the original plans to transform Perth Theatre were drawn up some time ago, Horsecross Arts and Perth and Kinross Council agreed that it was important to carry out a thorough review of the design proposals.
“This has caused a delay in the visible work starting on site, although we have been very busy behind the scenes.”
He said: “It remains our objective to get on site during 2015, with the restored and redeveloped theatre due to reopen in 2017.”
Mr Gibbons added: “I’m really pleased the project has reached the significant stage and that, subject to final design work and contract negotiations, building work can now get under way, thanks to Perth and Kinross Council closing the final gap in the construction budget.
“I am grateful for the hard work of Perth and Kinross Council as lead partners of the construction project for the painstaking and comprehensive review of all aspects of this combined, refurbishment, new build and complex restoration,” said Mr Gibbons
He added Horsecross was working closely with the local authority to ensure the new theatre will “exceed the expectations of our audiences and theatre makers” to create a venue that can be enjoyed by future generations.
Later this month, a series of public sessions will be held at Perth Concert Hall to keep people up to speed with developments.
The events will take place on Wednesday April 29 at 1, 3 and 5pm and will feature presentations from, among others, Horsecross chairman Magnus Linklater.
Last month, Mr Linklater told The Courier the theatre will be “worth the wait” and stressed that there was “tremendous work” going on behind the scenes.
There will be an opportunity to ask questions and examine the proposal. Places are limited and can be booked in advance by calling 01738 621031.