£1 million Parr Hall deal

A CONTRACT has been awarded for a major re-development of Warrington’s Parr Hall – the town’s premier concert venue.
The work will mark the second phase of the refurbishment of the hall which started last year with improvements to lighting and sound facilities.
This has already made the hall more suitable for larger shows.
Now the second phase – which is believed to be valued at more than £1 million – will result in a complete refurbishment of the interior, front of house and back stage areas.
There will be additional bar capacity on the first floor, providing modern standards and more comfortable accommodation for customers.
Jan Souness head of cultural services said: “This work will attract more high profile performers, increasing audiences and improving accessibility for community groups.”
Six contractors put in bids for the work and the council’s executive board chose the lowest bid.
Coun Bob Timmis, the council’s executive member for leisure said: “I am delighted with this. It will make the Parr Hall more attractive to artists.
“It will be brighter and more likely to put bums on seats.
“There has been wide consultation with users, local community arts groups and the general public.”
Leader of the council Ian Marks said: “A lot of people still don’t realise the quality of the acts we are already getting at the Parr Hall. It is now up to us to promote it so everyone does know.”