The rebirth of the Molineux Hotel reached another level today, with the switch-on of new floodlights to highlight the iconic status of this historic building. The illumination is part of WDC’s commitment to highlight Wolverhampton’s historic locations under the Heritage Lighting programme.
The hotel is the first to go under the spotlight, with the illumination marking the successful completion of its restoration.
The work to floodlight the building is the final piece of its successful restoration, which Wolverhampton City Council co-ordinated through financial support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Advantage West Midlands and English Heritage.
Wolverhampton Development Company has come on board to support the project by funding the scheme to light up the building.
Mayor of Wolverhampton, Cllr Christine Mills, said: ‘The Molineux Hotel follows St. Peter's Church, the University buildings and Graiseley flats in coming out of darkness into light, and will ensure that the flagship historic building is seen not only during the day by its users but also at night by all who pass by.’
Graham Mackenzie, Chairman of Wolverhampton Development Company, said: ‘Wolverhampton has many fantastic historic buildings and the Wolverhampton Development Company felt that it would be a tremendous asset for the city to highlight this heritage, allowing residents and visitors to see the history and quality Wolverhampton has to offer.
‘It is hoped that further schemes will be completed over the next few years and various discussions are taking place in relation to exactly where and when,’ he added.
Anne Jenkins, Head of Region for the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: ‘I am delighted that the project has come another step closer to completion. The £3.3M grant that HLF gave has made a real difference in transforming this iconic building and putting it back to public use. It has a lot of memories for many people in Wolverhampton and its use as a local archive centre will offer further opportunities for local people to celebrate their heritage.’