Civic Centre

The Middleton Civic Centre was designed by the Borough Architect’s Department as a multi-purpose hall, with folding acoustic partitions and removable or adjustable equipment used to create different interior environments for different functions.

The stage was mechanically retractable, split in three sections so that it could extend to form a thrust. There was a full flying facility, which could be hidden by flying ceiling panels if the area was being used for non-theatre purposes.

The main auditorium was on two levels, with upholstered bleacher seating and beech hardwood strip flooring. Front of house facilities were flexible as a result of moving partitions at mezzanine level.

The building was of red brick, with the fascias and front wall of the flytower clad in lead faced chipboard, and glazing in tinted glass.

This was an unusual civic building for the mid 1970s, in particular for the extent of its flying facilities.

It was demolished in 2009 as part of the re-development of the town centre, which includes the new Middleton Arena.