Executive Member for Economic Growth and Planning, Councillor Michael Hyman performed the official handover, which he said was a significant milestone not only for the hall, but the overall vision highlighted in the Stretford Town Centre Masterplan.

“Selling Stretford Public Hall to the community demonstrates the best aspects of community partnership working. Ahead of the decision to sell this iconic building to the Friends of Group, the Council carried out significant marketing. Analysis of the bids showed that the Group’s bid represented the best value across a range of criteria and sees the hall continue to be a focus for the Stretford community

The ways the group are looking at using the space, including for weddings, conferences and parties, alongside a small theatre, music venue, small business start-up space and a café/bar outlet are exciting. To see the enthusiasm, commitment and energy of everyone involved is refreshing and inspiring and I’d like to wish the Friends of Stretford Public Hall the best of luck in their efforts,” he said.

Friends of Stretford Public Hall Chair Annoushka Deighton, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Trafford council has agreed for Stretford Public Hall to be community owned and run. This is a once in a life time opportunity to create a landmark project that will bring new life right in the heart of our town centre. We couldn’t have achieved this without the support and hard work of so many local residents and look forward to being able to open the doors to the public once more.”

The Grade II Listed Building on the corner of Chester Road and Kingsway in Stretford was built for the local community by John Rylands in 1878. 

Stretford’s first public lending library was established in the building in 1883. At John Ryland’s death in 1888, his widow placed the building at the disposal of the local authority for a nominal rent, and on her own death in 1908, the building was bought by Stretford Council. 

It has had various uses since then, once the a civic theatre and a leisure centre, it fell into disrepair in the 1970’s before being refurbished and used for a time as council offices before being put up for sale.