GRAHAM Construction starts transformation of the historic Piece Hall

GRAHAM Construction to transform the historic Piece Hall.

HALIFAX, 29-10-2014 — /EuropaWire/ — Halifax is one step closer to being a world-class cultural destination following confirmation to transform the historic Piece Hall and create a new, £22m state-of-the-art Central Library and Archive in the town centre.

Calderdale Council awarded the building contract to GRAHAM Construction and a special event at the existing Piece Hall on Monday 27 Octoober marked the commencement of works.

Calderdale Council’s Leader, Cllr Stephen Baines, said:

“This is a significant milestone for the Piece Hall transformation project and the new Central Library and Archive. I’m delighted that the Council will be working with GRAHAM Construction. With such a strong track record, I’m confident that the company will create outstanding facilities that everyone can be proud of, taking great care to respect the site’s magnificent heritage.”

Gary Hughes, Regional Director at GRAHAM Construction, said:

“GRAHAM Construction are tremendously proud to be playing such a major part in this keenly anticipated facility and we share the vision, of our project partners, to see The Piece Hall caringly restored so it continues to play a practical, sustainable and interactive role for current and future generations.

“The new build library and archive, which GRAHAM is constructing as part of the Piece Hall redevelopment, will also be a fantastic facility for the town sitting within a thriving cultural quarter.

“GRAHAM will be engaging with the community to maximise education, employment and social opportunities, as well as, opening up the building to visits from interested parties throughout the renovation, sharing the development with the people of Halifax.”

The Piece Hall transformation project is being funded by Calderdale Council and a £7m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The Grade I Listed building will be refurbished and conserved, creating a 21st century heritage visitor attraction, with an interpretation and learning centre, a new east extension and a redesigned courtyard.

The new Central Library and Archive will be wholly funded by the Council. It will be a striking building which provides state-of-the-art facilities for the community, supporting the Piece Hall transformation and helping to create an improved pedestrian route from Halifax train station to the town centre.

The Piece Hall and the new Central Library and Archive will open in spring 2016.

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