BRIDGWATER’S Town Hall and the adjacent theatre is set to be “revitalised” to the tune of £5.4 million after town councillors unanimously approved the business plan.

To help pay for the upgrade, a £3.9m loan application will be submitted which Bridgwater Town Council says will be offset from new income regeneration after the town hall is revitalised.

£900,000 has also been secured through the town deal funding, which is money provided from government that looks to improve the town with projects such as this and the formation of the Celebration Mile.

READ MORE: Contractor appointment brings town’s Celebration Mile a step closer

The Grade II listed building has long been in need of refurbishment with the building’s outdated features and lack of accessibility preventing the public from visiting the site.

Councillor Brian Smedley, Leader of Bridgwater Town Council said: “This is an incredibly exciting project and could really put Bridgwater on the map as a cultural destination.

“We are committed to retaining the heritage of Bridgwater, whilst also providing something that the community can be proud of”.

Key upgrades and enhancements provided by the town deal funding:

• Auditorium enhancements: The theatre’s seating, backstage facilities, and rehearsal spaces will undergo significant improvements
• Cutting-edge technology: State-of-the-art sound systems and projection capabilities elevate performances, making the theatre a versatile venue for various events.
• Changing rooms enhancements: Significant work is underway within the dressing rooms, with increased size of the dressing rooms and eradicating of damp within these rooms and installation of new WC and shower facilities to provide a first-class experience to the various acts and cast members.
• Accessibility: A new lift installation ensures that everyone can access the enriching experiences within the theatre.

Key upgrades and enhancements provided by other funding streams:

• Façade: Deep cleaning of all masonry and required repairs, full repainting of masonry (the white part of the site), repair and repainting of sash windows, replacement of the metal Crittall windows with new timber frames and double glazing in the 1950’s part of the site.
• Climate measures: Installation of Solar Photovoltaic Cells on the roof and insulation of roof voids and the removal of gas central heating to the site and replacement of electrical heating and hot water supply.
• Opportunity to create space: Additional space will be created by the remodelling of existing spaces, in addition there will be further remodelling of dormant offices, corridors, and WC’s.
• The creation of a new Atrium to infill one of the underutilised courtyards and building of an additional conference room near the theatre adds more space and connects all the areas together acting as the central core of the building.

The town council says this investment will allow them to unlock economic growth for the high street.

Cllr Tim Mander, Chair of the Council’s Amenities Committee said: “This is an incredibly exciting project which will help revitalise and reenergise this part of the High Street.

“There is a real enthusiasm to regenerate the town and create the best facilities for residents and visitors alike.

“This opportunity is the next step in the town centre improvement and the effect on the town could be enormous “

David Mears, Town Clerk and CEO said: “I am thrilled to announce that the £5.4million Town Hall and Theatre regeneration proposals have been officially approved by our dedicated councillors.

“This significant investment marks a pivotal moment for our community, as it will not only preserve the historical essence of our Town Hall but also transform it into a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike.

“Our vision is to create a space that fosters community engagement, supports local businesses, and enhances the overall quality of life in our town.

“We are committed to ensuring that this project is carried out with the utmost care and consideration for the needs and aspirations of our community.

“We look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to bring this exciting project to fruition and to witnessing the positive impact it will have on our town for generations to come.”