Council to refurbish Macclesfield landmark
The Old Town Hall in Macclesfield will close shortly for a major refurbishment to turn the building into a conference, wedding and theatre venue.
The listed building on Market Square will close on Friday 30 September with the works expected to be completed by May 2012.
Owner Cheshire East Council hopes the number of people using the building will increase, helping the local economy by boosting shop, bar and restaurant trade.
The refurbishment will include the installation of a lift, improved toilets and redecoration throughout.
Cllr Jamie Macrae, cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity, said: "The refurbishment will restore this historic building to a condition that mirrors its status.
"It is one of the most iconic buildings in Macclesfield and the refurbished Town Hall will supplement the town's amenities and encourage people to hold events in the building.
"Also, as a council, we have a duty to maintain historic buildings and prevent them from getting into a state of disrepair.
"Our plans to regenerate the town are well known and we are in the early stages of delivering our overall vision. However, this project along with valuable work already done under the Make it Macclesfield brand and through the Macclesfield Economic Forum, is part of a wider plan to breathe life into the town."