Band on the Wall appoints City Build for £3.5 million expansion project
Inner City Music has announced the appointment of City Build as the main contractor to deliver the expansion of the historic Manchester music venue Band on the Wall.
Buro Four are Project Manager for the Arts Council and NLHF funded scheme which will see the restoration of The Cocozza building, one of only a few remaining structures from the days of the Victorian Smithfield Market. The redevelopment will increase the main venue capacity from 350 to 500 for headline artists and performances, while also re-modelling the bar and introducing an external terrace area. There will also be a smaller 80 capacity performance space on the ground floor, state of the art learning facilities and a rooftop A/V suite.
Gavin Sharp, CEO, Inner City Music said: “It means so much to everyone at Band on the Wall to be able to share the good news that our project to expand the venue is another step closer to being realised with the appointment of City Build.
I would like to thank our project team, Buro Four, OMI Architects and Simon Fenton Partnership for their commitment, enthusiasm, transparency and attention to detail throughout which has enabled our Board of Trustees to make the appointment in full confidence.”
Catherine Mitchell, Director, North Arts Council England said: “I’m pleased that we have been able to support Band on the Wall through capital funding. It is positive to see that during this unprecedented time for the arts and culture sector that organisations are continuing to plan for the future. The expansion of Band on the Wall will not only help secure the long term future of the venue but will increase opportunities for local people to engage in Manchester’s rich musical culture, as well as bringing artists from all the world to the city.”
David Renwick, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “Band on the Wall is steeped in music and cultural heritage and this project will ensure it is further able to spotlight and share it with Manchester’s ever growing population.”
Works are due to start on site before the end of the year.