PLANS to re-open the Greig Hall in Alcester have taken a major step forward after Stratford District Council announced it had reached agreement in principle for Alcester Town Council to take a lease of the building.
Local councillors hope to re-open the boarded up building as a community hall and arts venue.
The Hannah Susan Greig Memorial Hall was transferred to the District Council along with the Greig Leisure Centre following the legal proceedings which concluded last year.
The hall has been closed since 2011 and it has been a long-term ambition of the Town Council to reopen it.
Mayor of Alcester, Coun Gill Forman said: “I am delighted that we have reached agreement to take a lease of the Memorial Hall.
“In its heyday, the Hall was the venue for dances, performances and wedding receptions and it holds a very special place in the heart of the residents of Alcester.
“It is a real shame that the building has been closed for so long but now is the time for its re-invention as an iconic venue.
” It will attract shows and exhibitions from far and wide and also be available for residents and groups to use for local functions.
“The building is in a very sorry state and we have a great deal of work to do. I am confident, however, that with the support of our community, we can restore the Greig Hall to its proper place at the centre of community life in Alcester.”
Coun Tony Jefferson, Leader of the District Council added: “It is great news for the residents of Alcester that we have been able to reach an agreement in principle for Alcester Town Council to take a lease of the Hannah Susan Greig Memorial Hall in Alcester.
“The District Council’s Cabinet will now consider the agreement at its meeting in December, but this is another important milestone that’s been reached.”
