Salisbury City Hall to remain vaccine centre until March 2023
Wiltshire Council still want it to go back to an entertainment venue
Salisbury City Hall will remain a Covid vaccine centre until March 2023.
Wiltshire Council's agreed a new six month extension to the lease with the NHS to use the venue through the winter, to provide booster jabs.
But the authority say they're still keen to see the site go back to being an entertainment space in the future.
They've said a report on its possible uses is due to be presented to the Council in the coming months.
That will set out the results of a 'soft market test' to see if any interested parties might come forward to run the venue on Wiltshire Council's behalf.
Cllr Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said:
“There was an increase of COVID-19 cases earlier in the summer so we are pleased to extend the City Hall lease so that the NHS can comprehensively plan for the next six months ahead, during what is always a tricky autumn and winter period.
“However, we know people are eager to see City Hall reopen as an entertainment venue, just as we are, so cabinet will soon be presented with a comprehensive report so that we can make an informed decision on the options available and its long-term future can be secured.
“We’ll continue to keep people updated on this, as we recognise the important role the venue plays in the city’s cultural and entertainment offer.”
Fiona Hyett, Operations Director at Salisbury City Hall, said:
“We are delighted to be able to continue providing the Covid-19 vaccine from Salisbury City Hall.
“So far, this central location has provided the back drop to more than 240,000 vaccinations, and that number is set to increase over the coming months as adults aged over 50 begin to come forward for their all-important autumn booster jab.
“At every stage of the vaccination programme, we have been overwhelmed by the response from people in and around Salisbury, and we are confident that this latest phase, which will also see those who are eligible offered the seasonal flu vaccine, will be met in much the same way.”