Express & Star

Grand Slam of Darts and top comedy acts due to take place at Wolverhampton Civic Halls moved to Aldersley

Grand Slam of Darts and top comedy shows set to take place at Wolverhampton's Civic Halls are being relocated to keep the events in the city.

Published
Winner Michael Van Gerwen at last year's Grand Slam of Darts, held at Wolverhampton's Civic Hall

The move follows news that the Civic Halls will be closed until the Autumn of 2020 for a major £38 million full restoration.

The annual darts event and performances by Sarah Millican, Jason Manford, Dave Gorman and Joe Lycett will now take place at Aldersley Leisure Village.

Aldersley Leisure Village. Pic: Sam Bagnall

Wolverhampton Council approved the move in order to save risking losing the events to other venues outside of the city.

Cabinet member for City Economy, Councillor John Reynolds, said: “The Grand Slam of Darts puts the city on map, is watched by millions of people across the globe, attracts thousands of visitors to the city and brings in thousands of pounds.

Grand Slam of Darts 2017

“Following the announcement about the Civic Halls, many people told us it would be a disaster to lose these events from the city.

"We have listened, secured their future, and with it further investment.

“We’re also engaging with local councillors and residents to ensure the events runs as smoothly as possible and any disruption, mainly traffic-related, is kept to an absolute minimum.”

Peter Wright in action at last year's Grand Slam of Darts

Professional Darts Corporation chairman Barry Hearn added it was great news the Grand Slam of Darts would remain in the city.

"The bwin Grand Slam of Darts is synonymous with being held in Wolverhampton," said Barry.

"We've received great support from fans in the West Midlands and the City of Wolverhampton Council over the past decade, and I'm sure that the Aldersley Leisure Village will prove a popular new home for the event this year."

Jason Manford

Customers who had already purchased tickets for Civic Halls events are being kept fully informed about their options.

Ticket information for the bwin Grand Slam of Darts will be confirmed in due course.

Other comedy events coming up in Wolverhampton include Tiff Stevenson: Bombshell, Jamali Maddix: Vape Lord, Paul Foot: Image Conscious, and Richard Herring - all taking place at the Slade Rooms. There is also Stewart Francis: Into the Punset, coming to Diamond Banqueting Suite.