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Hall into a versatile performance venue and opening up the extensive cellars for the first time in 150 years – creating a new performance space .
In addition to the new performance area , the cellars will also include new classrooms and a technology lab , providing a fantastic space to educate and inspire young people about music and the arts . It will also house the National Centre for Inclusive Excellence , providing music making opportunities for young people with Special Education Needs and Disabilities .
On the exterior , the restoration of the historic façade will see the opening up of the striking Byzantine colonnades , further enhancing Colston Street ’ s public realm .
Working with Bristol Music Trust , Willmott Dixon will also be putting in place a programme of community engagement , working with local schools and colleges to engage and inspire young people about the project . It is hoped that this activity will leave a legacy that extends beyond the building itself .
John Boughton , deputy managing director at Willmott Dixon , said : “ We were incredibly proud to have constructed Bristol Beacon ’ s new Foyer nearly ten years ago so are excited to be back delivering this amazing scheme that will make it one of the UK ’ s best venues for entertainment . The hall is a Bristol icon that has served generations of Bristolians , and throughout the transformation we will maximise every opportunity to provide employment and training to benefit the city and its people .”
Bristol Music Trust is the organisation that runs Bristol Beacon and it is owned by Bristol City Council .
Louise Mitchell , chief executive of Bristol Music Trust said : “ The Hall hasn ’ t been updated since it opened in the 1950s , so it ’ s long overdue a transformational refurbishment that will give Bristol and the South West a world class venue to be proud of .”
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