A project to transform Wolverhampton's Civic Halls into a world-class venue has reached a key development milestone.

Willmott Dixon Interiors has been appointed to deliver the second and final phase of the £38 million project. The firm will complete upgrades to the Civic Hall and Wulfrun Hall.

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.

City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Economy, Councillor Harman Banger, said: "After carrying out due diligence we are delighted to have chosen one of the country's leading constructors, Willmott Dixon, to keep the works on time and on budget.

"This is now an exciting time in the project when we will begin to see real changes to the Civic Halls.

"The 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 the Grade II listed building is in need of refurbishment, as well as improvement to ensure it remains a thriving venue to be proud of for decades to come.

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"The works will make the halls a world-class venue, enabling them to attract significantly more popular and prestigious entertainment acts, while retaining the current characteristics that make them popular with performers, producers and audiences."

These transformative works will see the height above the stage to the rear of the Civic Hall increased to attract bigger and better shows. Overall, there will be wider and more comfortable seats, bigger and better bars and more space to socialise, expanded and revamped toilet facilities to give visitors an improved experience, lift access to new balconies, better access arrangements for disabled visitors (including enhanced wheelchair access), a greater number of accessible viewing points, and improved room temperatures through the installation of a new air conditioning system.

Commenting on the appointment, 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."

Wolves Civic is on track to reopen in autumn 2021.

(CM/MH)