Motörhead's Lemmy: Plans revealed for Kilmister Halls concert venue in Burslem
A revamp of the Grade II listed Queen's Theatre
Last updated 9th Jun 2025
Four weeks after the incredible statue of Motörhead legend Lemmy was unveiled in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, plans have been announced for a new concert venue in his hometown.
The idea to convert the vacant Grade II-listed Queen's Theatre into a revamped gig venue called Kilmister Halls is the brainchild of the IFK Legacy Project, which honours the memory and legacy of Ian Fraser ‘Lemmy’ Kilmister.
Unveiling their plans, the IFK Legacy Project wrote on their website: ‘The next stage is to create a 21st Century venue 'Kilmister Halls' in Lemmy’s name that will benefit the community in Burslem.
‘The chosen building is the semi derelict Queens Hall (Queens Theatre). Whilst we are starting the journey and process of procuring the building and the necessary large-scale funding (more information below) there is a need for initial funding to pay for surveys and initial design fees. This why we need the Lemmy and Motörhead communities’ help.
‘We envision it as a vibrant and versatile community hub, with a particular emphasis on live music that aligns with the broader goal of boosting Burslem and Stoke-on-Trent's cultural scene.’
Among those backing the proposals is renowned sculptor, Stoke-on-Trent native and keen Motörhead aficionado Andy Edwards, who created the phenomenal bronze Lemmy statue in Burlsem located directly in front of the Queen’s Theatre.
Edwards told the BBC: "We've got a big musical heritage in this city and we used to attract the best bands.
"That's drifted away and this (new venue) would make a huge difference in getting that back again."
A spokesperson for Stoke-on-Trent City Council said there had been "lots of discussions" with interested parties over the future of the Queen's Theatre.
"While these discussions are in still in the early stages and all options are being explored, it is clear that all interested parties are keen to progress with a project to restore the building, particularly one which will combine a performance space with wider community and educational uses," they told the BBC.
Burlem’s Queen’s Theatre opened its doors as a venue for concerts, drama and events in 1911, and it acquired Grade II listed status in 1972.
Requiring renovation work, the theatre closed in 1988. It hosted occasional events from 2003 but closed again in 2014.