Petersfield Town Council is planning a major refurbishment of the Festival Hall that could cost about £10m.

To help Petersfield residents understand the thinking behind the proposal, and explain what it entails, the council is launching a public consultation road show.

Councillor John Lees said: “The road show includes an official launch event where local resident and well-known actor Hugh Bonneville, who starred in the TV series Downton Abbey and the film Paddington, will join us.”

The proposed refurbishment is aimed at ‘future proofing’ the 1930s hall off Heath Road and making it an environmentally- friendly building.

If the modernisation is undertaken it will be carried out in phases, says the council.

At the moment no firm decision has been taken on the scope of the work that will go ahead, or the cost.

But it is likely the rundown and ageing ground-floor kitchen area will be the first part of the building to be renovated.

It is hoped developer contributions and grants will contribute to the cost of the project, but borrowing from the Public Works Loans Board hasn’t been ruled out.

Cllr Lees added: “We are at a stage that requires the council to consult widely with Petersfield residents.

“So we are therefore launching a public consultation road show to access as many residents as we can so they are aware and informed about our plans.”

Hugh Bonneville will be at the road show launch in the Square on Sunday, October 17, between midday and 3pm.

Photograph by Lou Boileau