OYEZ Arts, a charitable community benefit society, has secured a new 25-year lease with Trafford Council for Altrincham Town Hall—ensuring the long-term future of one of the town’s most impressive heritage buildings.
The agreement confirms OYEZ Arts as custodians of the Town Hall, preserving its role as a vibrant, accessible space for weddings, celebrations, arts events, and community activity.
Councillor Tom Ross, Leader of Trafford Council, said:
“We’re delighted that OYEZ Arts has signed this new lease to become the long-term custodians of this beautiful community building, securing its future as a space that everyone can enjoy in so many different ways.
Altrincham Town Hall really is the historic heart of the town – long may it continue to welcome guests and bookings from across the local community and beyond. We look forward to a productive partnership with OYEZ Arts that will ensure the building thrives and develops as a much-loved hive of activity and creativity.”
The news follows national recognition for Altrincham, recently named the Best Place to Live in the North West by The Sunday Times. Local resident Meg Kerr highlighted the growing cultural momentum:
“Altrincham’s cultural and creative cachet is on the rise. OYEZ Arts has taken on the Town Hall with exhibitions, arts and crafts, and a film club, as well as organising an arts trail connecting 37 town centre locations.”
OYEZ Arts has rapidly expanded its programme, offering creative opportunities for all ages—from children’s classes to live music events. International concert pianist Andrew Wilde is set to return to perform in the venue’s intimate setting, further strengthening its reputation as a destination for high-quality cultural experiences.
Jo Cushing, Founding Director of OYEZ Arts said:
“We are absolutely delighted that the community will help secure the Town Hall for the next 25 years. This is a massive opportunity for Altrincham, as it is the last remaining community heritage building in the town.
It’s a space for creative connection, participation, and engagement—nurturing talent, building confidence, and enriching local lives. The building itself is a beautiful setting for weddings and life events, with stunning oak panelling and stained glass.”
Looking ahead, OYEZ Arts plans to invest in the restoration and improvement of the building, including essential repairs, modernisation, and reinstatement of historic features.
To support this work, the organisation has launched a community share offer, inviting local people to invest in the future of the Town Hall. Shares start from £100 and include lifetime membership of OYEZ Arts.
Funds raised will contribute to refurbishment and long-term sustainability, while also strengthening the organisation’s ability to access further grants and funding.