Revamp at Wolverhampton venues praised
The multi-million pound refurbishment of the Civic Halls and Grand Theatre will result in a 'tremendous boost' to the region's economy, bosses hope.
Is it thought that up to half a million extra people will visit Wolverhampton every year as a result of the revamp.
The huge investment will see £10m spent on revamping the Civic and Wulfrun Halls – adding balconies and improved bar facilities to both venues – while the Grand Theatre will get an £800,000 facelift.
The project is now proceeding to its final business case after council bosses gave the green light.
Chiefs rejected plans to build a 10,000 capacity arena to rival Birmingham's NIA and LG Arenas in favour of the Civic revamp.
And leisure chief Councillor Elias Mattu said the benefits of the project would be felt across the city.
"This will boost the local economy tremendously," Councillor Mattu said.
"Restaurants, taxi firms – they'll all benefit. Both of these venues need money spending on them."
He added that the two venues already support more than 600 jobs and it is hoped that more will be created as a result of the refurbishment.
Work will start late next year on improving the Civic and Wulfrun Halls, in North Street.
A second balcony will be installed in the main Civic Hall, bumping its capacity up by 300 to 3,300.
And the stage, currently 12ft too small for major acts with big shows, will be put back 15ft, taking in to where the 'back bar' area currently is.
It is hoped arena-style acts will be attracted to play at the venue.
