Renovation of 18th Century Piece Hall underway
WORK is now underway to refurbish Halifax’s 18th Century Piece Hall and create a new, state-of-the-art central library and archive in the town centre.
The Grade I listed building was opened in 1779 as a trading centre for locally woven cloth before being converted in the 1970s into a tourist attraction with an art gallery, museum and shops.
Calderdale Council has awarded the building contract to GRAHAM Construction and The Piece Hall and the new central library and archive will open in spring 2016.
Calderdale Council’s Leader, Coun Stephen Baines said: “This is a significant milestone for the Piece Hall transformation project and the new Central Library and Archive. I’m delighted that the Council will be working with GRAHAM Construction. With such a strong track record, I’m confident that the company will create outstanding facilities that everyone can be proud of, taking great care to respect the site’s magnificent heritage.”
Gary Hughes, regional director at GRAHAM Construction, said: “The Piece Hall is a historic and much-loved building which is part of the fabric of Halifax. The refurbishment will therefore be extremely sensitive to its heritage.
“GRAHAM Construction is tremendously proud to be playing such a major part in this keenly anticipated facility. We share the vision of our project partners to see the Piece Hall caringly restored so it may continue to play a practical, sustainable and interactive role for current and future generations.”
He added: “The new build £9.25m library and archive, which GRAHAM is constructing as part of the Piece Hall redevelopment, will also be a fantastic facility for the town within a thriving cultural quarter.”
The Piece Hall transformation project is being funded by Calderdale Council and a £7m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Grade I Listed building will be refurbished and conserved, creating a 21st century heritage visitor attraction, with a state-of-the-art interpretation and learning centre, a new east extension and a redesigned courtyard.
The new central library and archive will be wholly funded by the Council.
