Type=image;ImageID=10869;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Civic Hall new look exterior;TitleClass=strong;
Type=image;ImageID=10870;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Civic Hall new look interior;TitleClass=strong;
Type=image;ImageID=10871;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Wulfrun Hall new look interior;TitleClass=strong;
Enabling works on the multi million pound refurbishment of the Grade II listed venue are now complete.
A contractor will be appointed in time for the main works to start in January 2017 and complete in March 2018.
In the meantime, the doors to the historic venue will swing open to the public again on Saturday as a collection of big hitting DJs bring the place to life once more at 'Garage Gathering'.
It is the first of several popular music events, and big name bands and comedians on the bill at the Civic Halls until the end of the year, with Blast Off 20th Birthday Party, The Specials, Al Murray, Singha Grand Slam of Darts, Black Stone Cherry, Professor Brian Cox Live, Cheeky Monkey (in aid of Compton Hospice), Catherine Tate, Jimmy Carr, James, Bay City Rollers and The Sweet, and Blast Off Xmas Party, among those to follow.
Councillor John Reynolds, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Economy, said: "The Civic Halls will burst into life again on Saturday and there is something for everyone to enjoy before they close again for the main works in the New Year.
"The Civic 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 this Grade II listed building is in need of refurbishment, as well as improvement to ensure it remains a thriving venue to be proud of.
"The increased capacity of the Civic Halls will make them a more attractive place in the entertainment market, enabling it to attract significantly more popular and prestigious acts, while retaining the current characteristics that make it popular with performers, producers and audiences.
"The importance of its contribution to the visitor economy was highlighted by Wolverhampton recently making the top 10 in a major survey of the best live music scenes in the UK."
The full refurbishment will see a new Civic Hall balcony at the rear of the hall, with the added benefit of an improved view of the stage for more customers.
A new glass covered bar area will also be installed above the main entrance of the Civic Hall, servicing the new upper level.
The Wulfrun Hall will also get a balcony, while the capacity in both halls will increase and hospitality areas will be improved.
The project will safeguard 637 jobs in the wider economy and it is anticipated to attract an additional 330,000 visitors a year, resulting in a further 120 direct and indirect jobs.
After closing again in the New Year, the Civic Hall and Wulfrun Hall will reopen in time to accommodate the Grand Slam of Darts and other events in November and December 2017. The Civic Hall will then close for its final facelift for the first three months of 2018, fully opening just in time to celebrate its 80th birthday.
For full details of all events at the Civic Halls from October to December 2016, and to buy tickets visit Type=links;Linkid=1949;Title=Wolves Civic;Target=_blank;.
- released: Thursday 6 October, 2016