The £8 million renovation project for Blackburn’s King George’s Hall is set to be funded by an additional Levelling Up grant of £20 million allocated to Blackburn with Darwen Council by the government. This announcement was made earlier today, reflecting a significant investment in the borough’s infrastructure and cultural assets.
In addition to the renovation of King George’s Hall, the remaining funds from the grant will be allocated to various other projects aimed at enhancing the local community. This includes the refurbishment of Tony’s Ballroom, a historic dance venue in Blackburn town centre, and the redevelopment of The Exchange building, a Grade II listed heritage site dating back to 1865. Furthermore, the grant will support the transformation of the Imperial Mill, acquired by the council last year, into a hub for employment and cultural activities.
The specific details of how the funds will be allocated are currently being finalized in collaboration with Whitehall civil servants. This follows Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove’s announcement at the Convention for the North in Leeds, indicating a collaborative effort between local and national authorities to drive forward these regeneration initiatives.
The decision to allocate funds towards the renovation of King George’s Hall follows the council’s long-term ambition to revitalize the historic building, which has been a prominent cultural venue since its opening in 1921. The hall, which underwent extensive renovations in 1994, is structurally sound, according to a specialist survey. The focus of the refurbishment will be on the interior, including the main auditorium and the Windsor Suite, catering to a wide range of shows and functions. Additionally, the building houses the newly established Akbar’s restaurant, adding to its appeal as a cultural and culinary destination.
Local leaders have welcomed the news of the grant, describing it as “brilliant” and “fantastic.” Councillor Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, expressed his delight at the funding allocated to King George’s Hall, emphasizing its importance as a cultural hub for the borough and the wider region. Similarly, Conservative group regeneration spokesperson Councillor Paul Marrow praised the government’s investment in Blackburn, highlighting the significance of King George’s Hall as a centerpiece of the town centre’s cultural landscape.
The funding allocated to King George’s Hall is part of a broader initiative to support cultural and heritage projects in Blackburn. The refurbishment of Tony’s Ballroom, a cherished venue with a rich history dating back to the 1920s, is poised to revive the local arts scene and provide a platform for community events. Similarly, the redevelopment of The Exchange building promises to breathe new life into Blackburn’s historic town centre, creating vibrant spaces for work and leisure.
The transformation of the Imperial Mill represents another milestone in Blackburn’s regeneration journey. Once completed, the mill will not only provide employment opportunities but also serve as a cultural hub, fostering creativity and innovation in the community.
Overall, the £20 million Levelling Up grant signifies a substantial commitment to Blackburn’s regeneration efforts, supporting key cultural and heritage projects that will contribute to the borough’s growth and vitality. As preparations for the renovation projects progress, there is optimism about the positive impact they will have on the community, ensuring that Blackburn remains a vibrant and thriving place for years to come.