£1m funding approval will help transform Stalybridge Civic Hall into a cultural hub

Stalybridge Civic Hall could soon become a more vibrant space for cultural and creative events if proposed funding plans for additional internal renovations are approved by Tameside Executive Cabinet next week.

Following completion of the roof replacement, the proposed upgrades to the internal space will help make the Civic Hall a more flexible venue for markets, festivals, theatre performances, and exhibitions. These improvements reflect input from local residents and stakeholders from consultation undertaken  If works are approved, completion will bring a series of exciting pilot events for 2025/26 to test the potential of the refreshed space, launching with The Royal Exchange Theatre’ ‘The Den’ project when it makes it exciting return to Tameside next May. A long-term plan will follow to secure the Civic Hall’s future as a key cultural and community hub.

The funding includes £250,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and £750,000 from the £19.9 million Stalybridge Capital Regeneration Fund. This investment will deliver a high-quality interior space and reposition the Civic Hall as a central attraction in the town. A long-term plan will follow to secure the Civic Hall’s future as a key cultural and community hub available for use by the local community.

The Civic Hall is part of three key projects in the Stalybridge Capital Regeneration Programme, focused on revitalising the town’s cultural quarter and heritage assets. Other initiatives include:

• Upgrading roads and pedestrian areas.
• Preparing Stalybridge West sites for residential development and investment.
   

These plans align with the Stalybridge Town Centre Framework, adopted in January 2024, which outlines the strategy for delivering these improvements.

Cllr Andrew McLaren, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Growth, Housing, and Homelessness, said: “It is important we see and invest in opportunities like this. These improvements aren’t just about a building, they will help transform Stalybridge. They will make public spaces better, bring more visitors, help local businesses, and celebrate our town’s culture. The Civic Hall is at the heart of this plan. It will become a lively and versatile space for events and a key part of the community.”

Plans to improve accessibility at the Astley Cheetham Library and Art Gallery are also underway. These include adding a ramp and other access features, with planning approval pending.

To learn more about the regeneration of Stalybridge, visit www.tameside.gov.uk/Stalybridgeregeneration.