A popular arts organisation that set up home in Altrincham Town Hall – the ‘historic heart’ of the town – has struck a new deal with Trafford Council.
A new 25-year lease for Oyez Arts will secure the heritage building as its long-term home, as well keeping it open and available for weddings, celebrations and events.
And local people are being invited to buy a share in the building, as well as join Oyez Arts as a member, for as little as £100.
The 124-year-old building has elegant period features, high ceilings and beautiful natural light, making it a popular backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions as well as a range of events and get-togethers. Oyez Arts also hosts creative workshops and wellbeing sessions, performances and classes.
The town hall has been run and managed by Oyez Arts since 2024 and its community share offer was launched last year.
Leader of Trafford Council, Cllr Tom Ross, said:
“We’re delighted that Oyez Arts has signed this new lease to become the long-term custodians of this beautiful community building, securing its future as a space that everyone can enjoy in so many different ways.
“Altrincham Town Hall really is the historic heart of the town – long may it continue to welcome guests and bookings from across the local community and beyond. We look forward to a productive partnership with Oyez Arts that will ensure the building thrives and develops as a much-loved hive of activity and creativity.”
Founding director of Oyez Arts, Jo Cushing, said:
“We are absolutely delighted that the community will own the town hall for the next 25 years. This is a massive opportunity for everyone in Altrincham as it is the last remaining community heritage building in the town.
“It is a happy space for creative connection, ideas, participation and engagement. It nurtures talent at every level, builds confidence and helps enrich local lives. The interior is beautiful, an intimate venue for weddings and life events with oak panelling and stained glass.”
Oyez Arts’ community share offer will help raise funds for essential repair works, refurbishment and restoration of the building. Investment includes membership of Oyez Arts, strengthening its ability to access grants and funding that will support long-term restoration and sustainability.