Artist’s impression of how Wolverhampton Civic Halls will look following refurbishment (supplied by Willmott Dixon)
Willmott Dixon Interiors has won a deal to complete phase two of the £38m renovation of Wolverhampton’s Civic Halls, following the collapse earlier this year of Shaylor Group.
The first phase of the project was completed at the end of May and Shaylor was due to start the second phase until it fell into administration in June.
Now Willmott Dixon has been handed the task of continuing the transformation of the Grade II-listed building, which involves major changes to the Civic Hall and Wulfrun Hall, as well as keeping the venue on track to reopen in autumn 2021.
The project involves essential structural, engineering and electrical works, the construction 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 and better shows.
Overall, there will be wider and more comfortable seats, more public space to socialise, expanded and revamped toilet facilities, lift access to the new balconies, better access arrangements for disabled visitors, a greater number of accessible viewing points, and the installation of a new air conditioning system.
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.
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 refurbishments and historic building are our speciality and we’re extremely excited to be given the opportunity to deliver on this scheme. We intend to utilise the energy, passion and commitment of our people to strengthen the wellbeing of the society surrounding the buildings we create and have a proven track record in doing so. We look forward to attending the ‘Meet the Buyer’ event on Monday afternoon, to ensure we fully engage with local businesses and supply chain.”
The project was procured via Major Works England and Northern Ireland, a part of the Scape National Construction framework.
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The Wolverhampton Civic Hall and Wulfrun Hall were important parts of my childhood and youth in that city. They have always deserved greater attention in 20th century architectural history. Delighted that Willmott Dixon are undertaking their restoration.