New look for landmark Cradley Heath hall

2:40pm Friday 18th July 2008

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These artist’s impressions show how Regis Hall will look when it is restored to its heyday thanks to an impressive £250,000 makeover.

Halesowen entrepreneurs Tony Billingham and Carole Jenkins secured the landmark hall's future when they bought it for £500,000 at auction when Sandwell Council decided to sell it off.

The duo, partners of the Carlton Care Group, are busy transforming the historic Cradley Heath building and have hired top designers to ensure the makeover is in keeping with its art deco exterior.

The 1952 hall in Reddal Hill Road is expected to be open to the public by Tuesday August 18.

The revamped building will boast a dance hall, stage, bar, restaurant, art deco-style carpet and reception.

It will host day care for Sandwell Social Services, a restaurant will be open to the public and it will be available for hire for events like weddings and conferences.

The hall is well known in the area for its musical heritage – it hosted a series of top names like the Drifters and Edwin Star – and Tony and Carole will stay true to this by staging themed music nights including soul, jazz and 'Strictly Come Dancing' style events.

Cradley Heath councillor Julie Webb was looking forward to the project's completion.

She said: “I'm delighted Regis Hall will be brought into use. It will be good to see it back at the heart of the community.

“It's got the potential to be a really great community facility. It's really good news for Cradley Heath.”

The makeover is being overseen by project manager former Salvation Army captain Gordon Roberts.