‘We will keep tourism alive in Yorkshire’
quickly – we see it as a lifeline to Halifax once it’s over.
“My intention is to keep it going in slumber then kickstart the economy of Calderdale really quickly.”
It had been a very difficult decision to close the Piece
Hall gates but although people had been moving around the Piece Hall safely, increasing closures prompted worry that more people might be drawn to the former cloth hall, coupled with official advice and Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s announcement on March 22, meant the decision had to be made.
Most of the shows making up the Live At The Piece Hall series of events which were to have been held in late June and early July will now be staged through September, but ska legends The Specials will not take to the stage at the Grade I listed Halifax attraction until July 2021.
Earlier Mrs ChanceThompson said the decision would probably be with the artists and their managements amid the coronavirus pandemic and the musicians were likely to follow a pragmatic and sensible course in line with Government advice.
The Trust and promoters Futuresound Events have taken what they describe as a “difficult” decision to postpone concerts featuring Richard Hawley, Kaiser Chiefs, Jack Savoretti, Shed Seven and Manic Street Preachers until weekend dates in September this year – with The Specials, supported by The Rifles and The Skints, switching to Friday, July 2, 2021.
Their joint statement says: “This has been an incredibly difficult decision for us to make, but we feel that it is a necessary one considering the current advice from the UK government regarding large events and public gatherings and the need to protect everyone. We remain committed to ensuring that
The Piece Hall remains a safe and enjoyable venue for all visitors, artists, staff and our traders.”
All tickets remain valid for the new dates, said the Trust and promoters.
* Can tourism survive in our area? Has your business been impacted? Email your stories and photos to us: newsdesk@ halifaxcourier.co.uk