Since the Trust was formed the expectation had been that the restoration of the Town Hall would take place all at once. However, it proved impossible to raise the necessary funds and aside from securing the lease only limited progress was made.
In 2021 we adopted a different more agile approach that sought to make incremental changes that would each deliver significant improvements. Following structural, access and fire risk surveys we focused on installing an electricity supply together with fire detection and escape measures. While the Hall would not be heated or have a water supply it would at least be safe for public access.
The electricity was switched on in July 2023 and we start presenting the first performances later in the year.
In 2025 we were able to secure funding from the Town Council to pay for ceiling repairs, installation of water supply and toilet, and installation of a stair-lift. Works will hopefully begin in early 2026.
Accessibility
We are often asked about disability access. Currently the Hall can only be accessed by the stairway adjacent to the library. We commissioned an access audit which identified a range of measures we would need to take to improve access. For the moment these do not include full physical access but we are investigating ways of providing alternative virtual access to our shows.
The Medium Term
Once we have reopened the doors we will move to the next phases of restoring the Town Hall. These will include:
- Restoration of all the windows, some of which will need to be replaced
- Repairs to the ceiling
- Installation of water supply, toilet and sink
- Equipping the Hall with stage lighting, projection and other equipment
- Decoration of the stairway
- Strengthening and sound-proofing the floor
The Longer Term
The Town Hall is a ‘nice’ size but it has little space for a bar, kitchen and other ancillary facilities. The longer term ambition is therefore to extend the Hall to the rear. We would also love to reinstate the portico at the front of the building, an ambition supported by the emerging Town Centre Vision (see wivey.co.uk). All this poses all manner of challenges including getting listed building consent and negotiating all the necessary approvals with the Coop. It will also require a significant fundraising effort.
