One of Manchester's most iconic live music venues has reopened to the public following the completion of a major £4m scheme to transform the centre.

Band on the Wall closed in 2004 in order to allow work to get underway on the refurbishment of the jazz and world music venue, which has also played a central role in the city's punk scene during the 1970s. The revamp, which was carried out by venue operator Inner City Music, has included the installation of a new sound system, new audio-visual and sound studios, education suites and improved disabled access, as well as work to increase the audience capacity to 300.

Arts Council England (ACE) awarded the scheme a £2.5m grant in order to complement financial support from Manchester City Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Eddie Thomas, music officer at ACE, North West, said: "Through this investment, Band on the Wall is able to not only build on its reputation as a lynchpin venue on the national touring circuit but also offer new high-level support, development opportunities and information for artists, audiences and young people alike."

Gavin Sharp, chief executive officer of Band on the Wall, added: "We would not have been able to do any of this without the support of the Arts Council, Heritage Lottery Fund and Manchester City Council." Image: Brian Slater