Stalled £38m refurb of civic hall to restart

Willmott Dixon Interiors has been appointed to restart the £38m delayed refurbishment of Wolverhampton Civic Hall.

The project stalled three months ago after just getting underway when contractor Shaylor suddenly collapsed.

Phase two of the project will see the iconic Grade II-listed building transformed and keep the venue on track to reopen in autumn 2021.

Planning approval on the detailed design of the building has also been approved.

City of Wolverhampton Council’s Harman Banger said: “After carrying out due diligence we are delighted to have chosen one of the country’s leading constructors, Willmott Dixon, to keep the works on time and on budget.

“This is now an exciting time in the project when we will begin to see real changes to the Civic Halls.

“The halls have been around since 1938 and are an important part of our visitor economy – providing jobs and generating millions of pounds every year by staging nationally acclaimed shows.  As part of our regeneration plans for the city we recognised the Grade II listed building is in need of refurbishment, as well as improvement to ensure it remains a thriving venue to be proud of for decades to come.

“The works will make the halls a world-class venue, enabling them to attract significantly more popular and prestigious entertainment acts, while retaining the current characteristics that make them popular with performers, producers and audiences.”

Phil Crowther, director of Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen to move forward with Wolves Civic. It is a building that the whole team here feel passionate about restoring and we have the best people to bring this project back on track. The team and I that have worked hard to secure this project were all born within Wolverhampton; we know how important this venue is and the key part we’ll have to realise the plan.”

Structural, engineering and electrical works will be carried out as well as the introduction of a second balcony for the Civic Hall and a balcony in the Wulfrun Hall to provide additional seating.

The height above the stage to the rear of the Civic Hall will be increased to attract bigger shows.

When works are completed, the combined capacity for both venues will be more than 4,500 people when set up for standing or around 3,000 people when set up for seating.