Dorking Halls are being re-furbished
The Council is undertaking a significant, planned refurbishment of the Dorking Halls to take place over the next two years. This iconic performance venue in the heart of the town was built in 1931; with over 25 years since the last major refurbishment many of the heating, cooling and electrical systems are beyond their design life, and the ceiling of the Grand Hall needs to be replaced.
The Halls will need to close for the (quietest) summer months in both 2024 and 2025. The extensive work on heating, cooling and electrical should provide a much improved environment for audiences. It will also result in significant energy cost savings and could halve the Halls’ carbon emissions.
Nick Wright, Cabinet Member for Leisure & Tourism, says: “This refurbishment is all about improving customers’ experience, and preparing the venue for the future. We will be installing a new acoustic ceiling and projects to upgrade seating in the Grand Hall, improve the bar area, foyer and toilets, and create better disabled access are being considered. Other potential projects include modifying the Martineau Hall to create a small theatre space. The Halls staff are working hard to minimise disruption for our users, but this is a very exciting project that will ensure a long term future for this wonderful place”.
For more information visit the Dorking Halls website.
