Construction firm GF Tomlinson took control of the grade II listed building last year and has been working to achieve the ambitious plans which include creating a single entrance to both facilities, an expanded theatre, a reconfigured museum, community spaces and a new café bar.
Around £11million from a total £20m Levelling Up Fund grant and £695,000 from Arts Council England is being used to fund the renovation and remodelling of the venue, and councillors were keen to get a progress update from those on site.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The building has changed dramatically since December 2023 and the work so far is starting to show how this building will feel when it is completed. I’m excited to welcome residents and visitors back to this venue once it is completed and think it will be a truly spectacular experience that we can all be proud of.
“This is an ambitious project for our borough and there is a lot of hard work still to do, but it will create a truly unique building where residents and visitors can experience culture and learn about the history of our borough.”
Managing director Adrian Grocock added: “We’re pleased with how works are progressing and you can really see the pivotal stages taking place to breathe new life into the Corporation Street site.”
“Once complete, the landmark state-of-the-art facility in the town centre will be revitalised, bringing many new opportunities to the local vicinity for arts and entertainment.”
Find out more about the project and sign up for updates about the project at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/revitalise.
5. Stephenson Memorial Hall - October 2024
Much of the work is also about improving the fabric of the historic building to protect it for generations to come, and ensure it is more energy efficient. This has included improvements to the roof, and upgrades to the structure, lining and insulation have been installed to help improve the thermal efficiency of the building and ensure the roof is watertight for many years to come. Photo: Jaktphotography
6. Stephenson Memorial Hall - October 2024
On the Corporation Street side, part of the roof has been removed ready for a new Link Gallery to be installed. This will house rooms that can be used for events, school trips, and community activities, and as extra space during performance intervals. Photo: Jaktphotography
7. Stephenson Memorial Hall - October 2024
Contractors have lifted roof tiles and begun cleaning of external brickwork and some re-pointing to restore the building its original splendour. Photo: Chesterfield Borough Council
8. NDET-17-10-24-SMH PAP The new cafe bar will be split across two levels-NMSYupload.jpg
The new cafe bar will be split across two levels and Aa new accessible lift shaft has been built that will ensure all guests can access every floor of the building including the circle which will include new accessible seating and the basement where a Changing Places toilet will be created. Photo: Jaktphotography