RENOVATIONS are under way in the venue that was once Prince Regent’s riding house – and its 200-year-old timbers are now on show.

The exposure of the centuries-old timber is part of an ambitious project to transform the interior of the Grade I listed Brighton Dome Corn Exchange and Grade II listed Studio Theatre.

New images released by Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival show the magnificent beams and cast-iron trusses which form the Corn Exchange roof and date back to when the Prince Regent used the grand building as a stable for his horses.

Among other developments taking place inside the historic building is the installation of a large glass skylight above a new public viewing gallery which will have a bar and overlook the Corn Exchange.

A balcony is being constructed in the Studio Theatre, once a supper room, to provide more seating and give the space a more intimate feel.

A visitor entrance in New Road will open up the building and make it more welcoming and accessible.

There will also be a new street-level cafe bar with terrace seating in New Road and a creative space for artists and production teams to use.

Photographer Carlotta Luke said: “For me, one of the most striking features of the Corn Exchange has always been the wooden struts that make up the great expanse of the roof. From the first time that I photographed the building over a year ago, I have been fascinated by the pattern they make across this huge room, accentuating how large the space actually is.

“It was interesting to see them change over the past few months as the old white paint was painstakingly stripped off to reveal the 200-year-old timber.

“The old wood of the ceiling adds so much to the beauty of the space below.”

Andrew Comben, chief executive of Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival, said: “We’re really excited about this project. It will reveal these spaces as they should be seen and give everybody the opportunity to experience the glory of this part of the Royal Pavilion Estate.

“Arts and culture are intrinsic to Brighton and Hove’s economy and the refurbishment of these important buildings will benefit thousands of lives in our city and beyond.”