Work to transform the old Hoylake Town Hall is progressing, with contractors having returned to the site, the firm behind the project has confirmed. The scheme, dubbed 'The Beacon', is expected to include a new cinema, art studio, restaurant and café.
Project Details and Funding
The £3.6m project, funded by Government grants, was meant to be completed over half a decade ago in 2020. The scheme is being delivered by Hylgar Properties. The developer's director, David Burke, has confirmed work on the project has been taking place 'every day', adding 'even when that work hasn't been visible from the outside.'
Contractors are now on site carrying out a programme of technical investigations and testing which will help shape the next stage of delivery as work continues across the project.
Developer's Statement
Mr Burke added: 'The Beacon has always been about much more than restoring a building. It's about creating something that will serve Hoylake for generations to come. A great deal of effort has gone into technical investigations, planning, funding discussions and working collaboratively with Government and our project partners to make sure we're building on solid foundations.'
'Every significant regeneration project encounters challenges along the way. What's important is how those challenges are addressed. We've taken the time to make the right decisions for the long-term success of The Beacon, and as a result I believe the project is now stronger than it has ever been.'
Community Support
'Seeing specialist contractors back on site is an important milestone and another sign of the progress being made. There is still work ahead of us, but we're excited about the future and the opportunities this project can create for Hoylake.'
'One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been the support we've received from the local community. Almost every time I walk along Market Street, someone stops to wish us well and to ask how we're getting on. Those conversations mean a great deal to me and to the wider team, and they remind us how much people care about seeing The Beacon brought back to life.'
'I'd like to thank everyone sincerely for their continued encouragement, patience and belief in the project. We can't wait to share more news with our community over the coming months, celebrate future milestones together and ultimately welcome people through the doors of a Beacon that Hoylake can be truly proud of.'
Celebrity Backing
Back in 2018, when the scheme was going through the planning process, it received the backing of 007 himself, Daniel Craig. The former James Bond actor, who spent much of his childhood in Wirral, said the plans were 'truly wonderful' according to Beacon Hoylake's website.
It is not known when the project will be completed.
