PETERSFIELD residents are being urged to come and inspect plans for a proposed multi-million pound redevelopment and improvement to the Festival Hall.

Now owned by Petersfield Town Council, the building off Heath Road was built in 1934 as a home for the Petersfield Music Festival and it was paid for by residents of the town.

The council is now planning a staged redevelopment that could cost between £2m and £3m if the project goes ahead in its entirety.

Council clerk Neil Hitch said: “The proposed redevelopment and improvements to the building will enable the council to extend and enhance the services and facilities available to residents and provide a public building of which the community can be proud, that will be fit to serve them for the next 50 years.”

Residents will be able to see the proposed plans for the hall at a special exhibition and consultation in the hall from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, October 19.

Mt Hitch added: “All members of the public are invited to attend to give their views on the proposed plans before the council makes a final decision on the extent of the development project.

“The architects, Foster Wilson will be present as will the business consultant, Chis Moore from ACL Consultancy, who have been working with the council in formulating the current proposals and designs.”

The catalyst for the proposed works centres around the wooden extension to the building no longer being fit for purpose. A detailed inspection revealed that to reburbish it would cost more than replacing it.

The inspection also suggested that it would be cost effective to improve and modernise the hall at the same time as part of any proposed works.

Petersfield Mayor, Councillor Lesley Farrow, said: “The Festival Hall is a vital part of our community and the people of Petersfield are incredibly fortunate to have a facility of this nature.

“It is incumbent on the council to ensure that it continues to provide the facilities needed to serve the community and leave a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy.”

Details of the plans can be viewed on the town council website at www.petersfield-tc.gov.uk/projects/festival-hall