Major repairs to silence music venue for 2 years
WOLVERHAMPTON Civic Hall is to remain closed for two years after significant structural issues were discovered.
Structural, mechanical, and electrical problems have all been found at the 80-year-old Grade II-listed venue, which has played host to some of the world’s biggest pop acts over the years.
The hall closed in December 2015 for restoration work but re-opened briefly at the end of last year.
It is now estimated the new work will cost £23.6 million more than the initial £14.4 million revamp.
As a result the hall is unlikely open again until autumn 2020.
It means major events already booked will have to be cancelled or rescheduled elsewhere.
“Given the mammoth magnitude of the issues uncovered by our contractors, it’s fair to say that the full restoration work we are now proposing is a very different project from the original one,” said Councillor John Reynolds, City of Wolverhampton Council’s cabinet member for city economy. “However, a thriving and to vibrant Civic Hall – that continues to draw people from all over the country – is a key part of our vision for a successful city.
“We need to make this important commitment to secure jobs and investment, and to give the city a venue it can be proud of for generations to come.”
Immediate projects include roof repairs and re-tiling, lift replacement and parapet repairs. Significant structural changes are also required to accommodate the extra weight of mechanical and electrical equipment.
Asbestos removal is also more extensive than anticipated.
Additional counter terrorism security measures, following attacks elsewhere in the UK, have impacted on the cost of the scheme, too.
The original plan included increased seating on new balconies, improved bar and hospitality areas, ventilation, lifts and better access to the adjacent Wulfrun Hall.
The restoration must be officially agreed by Wolverhampton’s city council on January 31.
If approved, the extra £23 million will be mainly funded by the sale of surplus council land and buildings. It is also hoped external grants and funding will be secured.