Mercer Hall in Great Harwood has officially reopened following the first phase completion of a major capital investment project, marking an important milestone in the building’s restoration and future as a community hub.
The first phase of the project, led by Hyndburn Leisure working closely with the Mercer Hall Repurposing Group, was completed in December, funded by the UK Government Community Ownership Fund and Hyndburn Borough Council. It has delivered significant improvements to the historic building, helping secure its long-term future for community use.
Works included reinstating a floor in the main hall, redecoration, installation of pigeon deterrent equipment to protect the exterior, and accessibility improvements to make the venue more inclusive for all users.
The scheme was overseen by Buttress Architects and delivered by local contractor Rosslee Construction, supporting both heritage-led regeneration and the local economy.
Stephen Anderson, Director from Buttress Architects said:
“Mercer Hall is a building of real local significance, and it has been a pleasure to support its sensitive restoration. The project balances respect for the building’s heritage with practical improvements that will enable it to function as a flexible, accessible community venue well into the future.”
Work at Mercer Hall is not yet finished. The first phase of refurbishment works also includes further works, funded by the Lancashire Environment Fund and Hyndburn Borough Council, this will see the first-floor hall and additional community spaces refurbished, further enhancing the building’s offer.
Looking ahead, more developments are planned throughout the year, with Mercer Hall set to host a growing programme of events. The first event will take place on 24th January, when the venue welcomes a charity boxing event coordinated by Clayton Amateur Boxing Club, signalling the return of Mercer Hall as a vibrant community venue.
Nick Carter, Construction Director from Rosslee Construction said:
“It has been a privilege to work on a building that means so much to the Great Harwood community. Reinstating the main hall floor and carrying out the improvements has helped bring Mercer Hall back to life, and we’re proud to have played a role in securing its future.”
Councillor Melissa Fisher, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Deputy Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, added:
“Mercer Hall is a much-loved local landmark, and this investment demonstrates our commitment to protecting important community assets. With support from the Community Ownership Fund, we’ve been able to deliver vital improvements that will allow the building to be used and enjoyed by residents for many years to come.”
Ciaran Wells, Chair of Hyndburn Leisure said:
“Reopening Mercer Hall is a fantastic moment for both Hyndburn Leisure and the local community. By working in partnership with the Mercer Hall Repurposing Group, we’ve been able to deliver a project that reflects local ambition and need. This is about more than bricks and mortar – it’s about creating welcoming, accessible spaces where people can come together.”
Stephen Anderson
Stephen leads the practice's heritage team, specialising in projects that involve listed buildings and heritage assets and responding to their impact on place and local communities.