Closed: Royal Hall and Harrogate Convention Centres shut temporarily in Covid-19 safety move

The mounting speculation that Harrogate's two biggest venues would be forced to close during the coronavirus lockdown was answered today - all planned events for the spring have been postponed.
By Graham Chalmers
Published 19th Mar 2020, 15:13 BST
Updated 19th Mar 2020, 15:55 BST
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In light of government advice regarding public gatherings, and following discussions with event organisers, the Royal Hall and Harrogate Convention Centre have successfully postponed all events scheduled for spring 2020.

Paula Lorimer, diirector of Harrogate Convention Centre, said: “It’s the correct time to make this decision in the spirit of staff and public safety. The teams have worked hard to ensure all spring events are rescheduled and we are now in a position to temporarily close both venues to the public.

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"I am glad to say that the vast majority of events have new dates for later this year with only a handful of events awaiting alternative dates from Organisers. Re-scheduling events will ensure our events industry is ready to resume when the circumstances change.

Paula Lorimer, diirector of Harrogate Convention Centre, said: Its the correct time to make this decision in the spirit of staff and public safety."Paula Lorimer, diirector of Harrogate Convention Centre, said: Its the correct time to make this decision in the spirit of staff and public safety."
Paula Lorimer, diirector of Harrogate Convention Centre, said: Its the correct time to make this decision in the spirit of staff and public safety."

"We are continuing to monitor the situation in line with government guidelines and will review our position again on 4th April 2020. In the meantime, venue teams are still working at the venue to assist clients with future planning. We are also taking this opportunity to perform some essential maintenance work.”

Among the shows postponed because of the temporary closure are:

The Rocket Man - Tribute to Elton John

26th March: Royal Hall

Harrogate Choral Society

March 28th: Royal Hall

Boogie Wonderland

4th April: Royal Hall

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

18th April: Royal Hall

Harrogate bar pledges to stay open for customers - but it's still safety first during coronavirus crisis

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The Harrogate Convention Centre chief also thanked current and future audiences for their patience and understanding.

Paula Lorimer said: “We’d like to thank both our clients and the town for all the support and understanding our venues have received during these challenging times. We look forward to reopening the Convention Centre and our beautiful Edwardian Theatre when circumstances permit.”

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