Work under way on scheme to transform one of Manchester’s best loved theatres
Work has started on the £6.75 redevelopment of one of Manchester’s best-known theatres.
Contact in Oxford Road has appointed contractors F Parkinson Ltd to carry out the project which will take 12 months to complete.
Contact is recognised nationally and internationally as a centre for excellence in the promotion of youth leadership and creativity.
A dedicated team of young people, Con:Struct, has been fully involved in all aspects of the building project since 2014 and has been part of the tender and appointment process.
First established in 1972, Contact last underwent a major building redevelopment in 1999 with a ground-breaking new environmentally sustainable design.
Twenty years on, the building needs to expand in order to cope with the growing demand from young participants and audiences as well as further improving Contact’s economic and environmental sustainability.
This next stage in the building’s evolution will see Contact open in summer 2019 with new and improved performance spaces; a purpose-built recording studio for young people’s music projects; an arts and health development space; new offices for artists and cultural organisations to hire and work alongside staff; a new café/bar and many other exciting new features.
F Parkinson Ltd was set up in 1934 in Blackpool and has regional offices in Manchester and York. The company operates throughout the north of England.
Billie Meredith, Con:Struct member, said: “Being on the interview panel for Parkinson it was easy to see how well a fit they are; a great, hardworking company who care a lot for their community. I’m very much looking forward to the next steps of the project.”
Matt Fenton, chief Executive and artistic Director at Contact, said: “The re-opened Contact building and our new facilities will massively improve the experience for audiences, artists and project participants.
“It will make the building more accessible and will improve Contact’s economic and environmental sustainability.
“It’s fantastic to be working with a North West based contractor who aligns with our social values, and is also committed to creating opportunities for young people.”
Steve Williamson, regional director at F Parkinson Ltd said: “Parkinson’s are delighted to be appointed to deliver Contact’s fantastic redevelopment scheme.
“Their organisational values mirror our own which will enable a truly collaborative approach to leave a lasting legacy for the young people of Greater Manchester.”
The project has been funded thanks to a £3.85million grant from Arts Council England plus generous grants from other supporters, trusts and foundations.
