A PLAN to inject £5.4million into rejuvenating Bridgwater Town Hall has been unanimously approved by town councillors.

At the full council meeting on Thursday, August 1, Bridgwater town councillors approved the plans to refurbish the town hall and adjacent theatre, and agreed a £3.9million loan application would be submitted to support the project.

The town council stated the Grade II listed building is 'in long need of refurbishment and improvement' due to its 'outdated features and lack of accessibility'.

It is hoped that the new Bridgwater Town Hall will help build a better reputation for the town by unlocking economic growth for the High Street by bringing new shoppers to the refurbished town, alongside the Celebration Mile plans.

Full planning permission and listed building consent has been granted for the entire regeneration project, as well as a 'significant boost' through the Bridgwater Town Deal funding.

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, ensuring a top-tier experience for both performers and audiences.

  • 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.

Cllr 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.”

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.”