September 30, 2016 9.26 am This story is over 90 months old

Bourne town hall to become new entertainment centre

Bourne town hall could be turned into a new theatre, cinema, bar and market space if plans are approved by South Kesteven District Council. Bourne Town Hall Steering group has revealed its concept for the building, which has been empty since 2014. It aims to restore the building as a public amenity to be used…

Bourne town hall could be turned into a new theatre, cinema, bar and market space if plans are approved by South Kesteven District Council.

Bourne Town Hall Steering group has revealed its concept for the building, which has been empty since 2014.

It aims to restore the building as a public amenity to be used as a focal point for the arts and events in the town.

An initial concept has been drawn up by the steering group in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council who are trustee of the Bourne Town Hall charity.

The plans show how the first-floor courtroom would be converted into a performance space capable of hosting shows and operating as a community cinema.

The plans also include a hospitality and bar area at the front of the building. A new internal feature staircase would provide access directly to the first floor, together with a lift for disabled access. The ground floor would be returned to its original 1821 configuration of a large open ‘shambles’ providing flexible space for holding events such as regular craft markets or as a meeting place for a range of activities.

Councillors David Brailsford, Chair of the Bourne Town Hall Trust Management Committee, said: “The steering group have made excellent progress in putting some proposals together that could bring this building back into regular use by the community.

Now it’s time for people in Bourne to have their say on these more detailed ideas. The Town Hall really does have the potential to be at the heart of the community in Bourne once again and play a role in the town’s future.”

The open days will be on Saturday the 24th September and on the following Saturday the 1st October from 10am to 4pm.