Date: 18/03/2008
Major works to improve the Pavilion Gardens complex will start early in 2009 - later than expected, whilst key short-term improvements will be carried out over the next 9 months.
The Council was unable to start major work until English Heritage gave its consent; this has now been received. These substantial improvements, to the Great Hall and restaurant, will take 8 to 10 weeks to complete, and parts of the complex will have to be closed temporarily to allow the works to happen.
The Council has decided that the work must not affect the busy times at the complex (Easter, summer and the festival season) or long-term bookings. The Pavilion Gardens complex is least busy at the beginning of the year, and it is now intended to complete the major part of the work during this quiet period.
The major improvements will enable medium term financial targets to be met and the Council has already taken steps to protect revenue through improved cost controls. Several key actions will be implemented over the next 9 months, prior to the main improvement works.
Council officers are looking at ways to expedite the transfer of the Tourist Information service into the Pavilion Gardens complex, to increase the number of visitors and income.
The Council is still in discussions with the Opera House and University to establish a partnership that will refurbish the Paxton Suite as a flexible multi-use space. As plans for this project are developed, further updates will be issued.
Councillor Tony Kemp, Executive Member for Regeneration, said: "The delay in the planned major investment is disappointing, but we believe that the risk of having substantial parts of the building closed during Buxton's peak tourism season is simply too high. During the consultation process, I gave a public assurance that anyone who had already booked a wedding would not be disappointed; I am determined that commitment will be honoured."