Stalybridge Civic Hall could become a 'vibrant space' for cultural events

Nearly £1m of extra improvements could transform Stalybridge Civic Hall into a 'vibrant space' for events, if councillors give plans the thumbs up.

Following completion of the roof replacement, the proposed upgrades will help make the Civic Hall a more flexible venue for markets, festivals, theatre performances, and exhibitions. The plans will be discussed by Tameside's executive cabinet next week.

If works are approved, completion will bring a series of  pilot events for 2025/26 to test the potential of the refreshed space, launching with The Royal Exchange Theatre’ ‘The Den’ project when it returns 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. 

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.

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 form part of our continuous regeneration programme and 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.