Historic Mercer Hall Receives £370k Grant Boost for Redevelopment
Great Harwood’s Mercer Hall is set for a major upgrade thanks to new funding
Great Harwood, Mercer Hall, Hyndburn Council, Community Ownership Fund, UK
Great Harwood: The historic Mercer Hall is getting a major facelift with a £370,000 boost in grants. This funding will help kick off the next phase of its redevelopment, including a brand-new dance floor.
The money comes from a mix of sources: £250,000 from the Community Ownership Fund and £120,000 from Hyndburn Council. Plus, there’s an additional £28,000 from the Architectural Heritage Fund that was secured earlier this year.
The goal is to restore the hall while celebrating its rich history. It’s all about making it a vibrant hub for community activities and creativity. Mercer Hall has been in the spotlight lately, especially after the council decided to close its swimming pool in favor of a new leisure center.
A dedicated group, the Mercer Hall Repurposing Group, has teamed up with Hyndburn Leisure and Buttress Architects to plan the hall’s future. They’re hoping to start renovations later this year.
Cllr Noordad Aziz, the deputy leader of Hyndburn Council, expressed excitement about the progress. He said it’s fantastic to see the community’s support for the hall and how these improvements will keep it a welcoming space for everyone.
He added that the community’s input is crucial, reflecting both the hall’s historical importance and the changing needs of locals. It’s a thrilling time for Great Harwood, and he can’t wait to see the results.
Ciaran Wells, chair of the Hyndburn Leisure Board, also shared his enthusiasm. He mentioned that this funding brings them closer to realizing their vision for the hall. They’re also waiting to hear back about additional bids for funding that could further enhance the project.
Joyce Newton, a local resident and member of the repurposing group, highlighted the community’s passion for this project. She’s thrilled to see things moving forward and is grateful to everyone involved.
She’s also looking forward to the outcomes of the upcoming funding bids. It’s an exciting journey for Mercer Hall and the community!
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