Local residents can now become part-owners of Altrincham Town Hall through a community share offer launched today by Oyez Arts.
The organisation, which has been running the historic building since September 2024, is inviting people to invest from as little as £100 to help secure the Town Hall's future under a new 25-year lease.
To mark the launch, Oyez Arts has released a three-minute promotional video featuring a specially-written parody of Blur's Parklife, with the Town Hall team and local community groups singing about the building. The video was created by Bafta-nominated film editor Mark Elliott, co-founder of Altrincham Film Club.
Watch the hilarious video here:
The share offer aims to raise £150,000, with a minimum target of £75,000 that will unlock a further £25,000 in match funding from the Community Shares Booster Fund.
Shares start at £100, payable in full or in 10 monthly instalments of £10, with a maximum investment of £12,000. Every investor becomes a member of Oyez Arts with one equal vote, regardless of how much they invest. After three years, members can apply to withdraw their capital and may receive up to 2% interest if the society generates a surplus.
The funds will go towards essential repairs, restoration and remodelling of the building, which is described as "the town's last remaining heritage community building".
Oyez Arts says investors will be helping to protect Altrincham's heritage and identity for future generations, while supporting a building that is "environmentally responsible and financially sustainable".
As members, investors will have a direct say in how the Town Hall is run, including attending and voting at the Annual General Meeting and nominating people to be elected to the board.
The community share model has a proven track record locally - Stretford Public Hall was saved and transformed by more than 1,000 investors using the same approach.
Altrincham Town Hall is recognised as the town's arts, culture and heritage hub within Trafford Council's Cultural Strategy. Since Oyez Arts moved in on a trial basis in September 2024, the building has been brought back into everyday use with classes, exhibitions, children's activities, film screenings, gigs, weddings, choirs, fundraisers, corporate hire and community events.
The share offer has received the Community Shares Standard Mark, which recognises offers meeting national standards of good practice. However, as with any investment, there are risks - investors could lose some or all of their money.
Those unable to invest can still support the Town Hall through donations, sponsorship or volunteering. Local businesses can also take part in a separate donation and sponsorship scheme.
To invest, visit www.oyezarts.org/invest
