£400,000 Mercer Hall transformation set to begin

Work will start on the first £400,000 phase of the transformation of Great Harwood’s historic Mercer Hall leisure complex later this summer with a view to it fully reopening in December with a pantomime.

The initial stage involves comprehensive preliminary works, including detailed measurements, asbestos assessments, and technical designs to accommodate new flooring and furnishings in the main hall and front entrance.

A key feature of the renovation will be the reinstatement of the grand doors leading into the reinstated hall and events space created by covering the former swimming pool.

Additionally, phase one includes the installation of a pigeon deterrent system on the building façade, aimed at protecting and preserving the structure for the long term.

Funding for the first phase totalling £400,000 has now been secured.

It is made up of £250,000 from the Community Ownership Fund, £120,000 from Hyndburn Council’s Capital Fund, and £30,000 from Lancashire Environmental Funding.

The revitalisation plans aim to celebrate the hall’s rich history and highlight its future as a centre for community engagement and creativity and include a new dance floor.

Mercer Hall, built between 1913 and 1921, has been the subject of bitter controversy since Hyndburn Council decided in 2022 to confirm the permanent closure of its swimming pool in favour of a new purpose-built £12m leisure centre at Wilson Playing Fields in Clayton-le-Moors which is currently pencilled in to open in October.

The existing gym will close when the new complex opens.

The Mercer Hall Repurposing Group, which includes Hyndburn Leisure which leases the building from Hyndburn Council, has played a pivotal role in shaping this project, providing input and guidance throughout its development.

Cllr Melissa Fisher, the authority’s deputy leader and leisure boss, said, “I am delighted to see the repurposing of Mercer Hall underway.

“The building is a much-loved community landmark and it’s wonderful to know that these efforts will ensure the people of Great Harwood can continue enjoying this historic building for many years to come.

“I am especially excited that Mercer Hall will be hosting its first event later this year, a touring panto presenting ‘Sleeping Beauty’, marking a joyful and vibrant start to the renewed Mercer Hall.”

These improvements will enable community groups and events to start utilising Mercer Hall from December 2025, revitalising this important community asset and marking a fresh chapter for the building.