Hopes high as work starts to redevelop site of historic hall

Work should begin this month on the site in Doncaster Road, after Scunthorpe firm Clugston Construction was confirmed as the developer.

The project is expected to cost 14.4m, 1.3m less than originally anticipated because of a reduction in construction costs.

Between 60 and 70 people a week will work on the site, rising to 130 during key phases.

Council leader, Councillor Mark Kirk, said: "It's great that as a result of a competitive tender process, we are able to use a local construction company to build the Baths Hall.

"It's more proof our local businesses can compete on a national playing field. I have every confidence that Clugston will help us to create a landmark for Scunthorpe.

"The new venue will act as a catalyst for further regeneration work along Doncaster Road – a key gateway into the town."

He added: "We have come a long way and are about to start building the new venue. With work starting in the very near future I am very excited to see things now beginning to take shape."

The plans are for a modern, multi-use venue, capable of hosting live performances and events, conferences and community use for as many as 2,000 people.

The venue will include an auditorium and multi-use area on the ground floor, with flexible partitioning and a capacity of 1,200 seated and 2,000 standing.

There will also be additional balcony seating, a caf and a bar.

However, opposition Tory councillors have opposed the scheme from the start, saying is poorly designed, lacks adequate parking and will prove a "massive" drain on public funds.

For many teenagers in the 1960s the Baths Hall was the region's answer to the Cavern Club in Mathew Street, Liverpool.

The Kinks, The Who, the Hollies and Animals were among the famous names who appeared at the venue in its heyday.

It has also hosted scores of aspiring musicians from both banks of the Humber.

The hall featured in Barton author Ted Lewis's gangster novel, Jack's Return Home, which has been filmed twice as Get Carter.