Memories of Alexandra Hall

THIS picture shows Alexandra Hall in Crosby before its demolition.
The snap was taken around 1967 by a former Crosby resident and keen photographer, who recently handed it to Memories.

In 2003, bulldozers moved in on the 19th century building which played host to the Beatles in 1961.
During the course of its long and varied history, Alexandra Hall had also been used as a courthouse.
In 1969, officials revealed the crumbling building was in desperate need of repairs and had a life expectancy of only 30 years.
In 1972, it became a temporary school for 150 sixth form pupils from nearby Chesterfield High School after work on a new block was delayed because of a builders’ strike.
And in 1977, the hall was converted into Crosby’s magistrates court.
But by the end of 2002, the hall faced an uncertain future and news broke that top secret bids had been made to buy it.
Private developers had until January 2003 to submit sealed bids for the then empty hall.
At the time, a Sefton Council spokesman said: “We do not have a guide price as the property is being disposed by way of informal tender which involves sealed offers being submitted on or before January 24, 2003.
“It is surplus to council requirements and is being sold with vacant possession.
“The hall is suitable for residential or non-residential uses but any conversion or redevelopment will be considered subject to planning.�
Sefton Council had also revealed that essential repairs were estimated at £2m.
The College Road building was sold to Chelford Homes by Sefton Council in early 2003. The firm used the site to build 20 luxury two-bedroom apartments.