Last chance to own a piece of cultural landmark

UNITY Hall, Wakefield’s biggest community-driven cultural renovation project, is offering its final remaining shares to the public.

In 2011, a community benefit co-operative was established to save the building and create a nationally acknowledged music venue, conference centre and hot-bed for smart new business innovators.

To date £4m has been raised to refurbish the grade II listed gem that has been used by the community since it was established as the Wakefield Co-operative headquarters in 1867.

Unity Hall chairman Chris Hill said: “It’s been phenomenal – we’ve had 230 people from the community already buying a share of Unity Hall raising £107,000 in share investment. We’re now at a very exciting time and on track for our grand opening in September 2014. There’s £100,000 in share capital left to ensure we complete the project, so we’re urging everyone across Yorkshire to be part of this success story and help create a lasting cultural legacy for Yorkshire.”

The share scheme is open to all, from as little as £200 to up to £100,000.

Mr Hill added: “It’s more than a redevelopment project, it’s a cultural movement by the people and for the people. Communities are clearly passionate about taking ownership of iconic, historic civic buildings, and shaping their own future. That’s what’s so exciting about it – if you are a shareholder you are part of a palpable cultural movement, as well as having a good investment.”

Shareholders will be members of the society and control it on a one-person one-vote basis.

Businesses and organisations as well as individuals can invest.

Along with the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, the Hepworth Gallery, the expanding Art House and refurbished Theatre Royal, Unity Hall is helping to make Wakefield a real cultural centre and is expected to have a £6m economic impact and create 100 jobs.

The hall will attract major music acts as well as offering a major conference centre and business hub, complete with bars, gallery, restaurant and café.
It has support from the European Regional Development Fund and Leeds City Region.

Shares will be available to buy from February until June 2014.