The historic Ulster Hall, which first opened its doors in 1859 and was designed by William J Barre, the man whose architectural portfolio also includes Belfast's landmark Albert Clock is ready to rock again.

An extensive refit and redecoration has been carried out on the Bedford Street building over the past two years with the final touches being added this week.


Long before the days of The Odyssey and The Waterfront Hall, Belfast's original 'star' concert venue, The Ulster Hall, was hosting the likes of Led Zeppelin and their first ever rendition of the classic 'Stairway to Heaven'.

The Ulster Hall is now set to reopen following the 24-month £7.4m refurbishment.

Besides new seating on the ground floor and the original metal balustrade on the balconies being restored, the windows, closed since the 1980s, will also be reopened and further improvements will include new stage lighting, upgraded heating and toilet facilities and a major upgrading of the artists' dressing rooms.

The Ulster Hall will stage grand gala concert re-opening on March 6.

(BMcC/JM)