Dunoon’s Queen's Hall is on track to host its first public event on Saturday, July 28, after a £12million project to transform the historic building.
A concert by ABBA Mania on July 28 will be the first public event at the venue since it closed for refurbishment in 2015, and it will be swiftly followed by a sold-out performance by The Proclaimers on Friday, August 3.
The Council’s Policy and Resources Committee heard that the work being carried out by contractors McLaughlin & Harvey is progressing well on the ambitious project, which is part of the £30million ‘CHORD’ programme to assist regeneration and economic development the five waterfront towns of Campbeltown, Helensburgh, Oban, Rothesay and Dunoon.
Councillor Gary Mulvaney, Policy Lead for Strategic Finance and Capital Regeneration Programme, said: “I know the people of Dunoon will be very excited that this project is nearing completion and that they will have a wonderful Queen's Hall open and available for use from July. The redevelopment of this historic building is the result of an ambitious and determined drive to create something truly special, and I have no doubt that residents of Dunoon and visitors to the town will be very impressed with what they see.â€
The Queen's Hall’s main auditorium has been completely refurbished to include retractable seating, new lighting and audio visual facilities and the ability to divide the area for different functions. A new café and catering facilities will be provided, with the flexibility to cater for a variety of events including weddings, exhibitions and meetings.
A fitness and training suite will be on site and the building will also house the new library and the offices of Skills Development Scotland. Additionally, a children’s soft play area is included, with a new road layout and public realm enhancing the marine access to Dunoon town centre, Cowal and the National Park beyond.