'Iconic' hall could be transformed into theatre

An "iconic" town hall at risk of being turned into flats could be transformed into a cafe, theatre and community space.

Clevedon Pier and Heritage Trust has bought Market Hall in Clevedon, North Somerset, which has sat empty since 2022 after demand dropped during the coronavirus pandemic.

Karen Brixey, fundraising manager for Clevedon Pier, said: "We saw a once-in-a-generation opportunity to purchase the building, and bring together these two icons of Clevedon's landscape and make a heritage centre."

The trust received the keys for the Grade II listed building on Friday, and the first event will be The Theatre Shop putting on a performance in September.

"It's very unusual inside, so we're going to make the most of it," Brixey added.

"There's so many different ideas floating around, and we're looking at what's practical, fundable, and what would bring the most benefit for the people of Clevedon."

As well as a theatre, the trust is looking into proposals to open offices and a community space within the building.

The hall was designed by local architect Hans Price, who also designed the pier's pagoda and other buildings along the seafront.

Brixey said: "The board took the decision to purchase it because otherwise there was a risk this iconic building was going to be turned into flats or something else.

"There's so many more ways we can bring the pier and Clevedon's wonderful stories to life."

Brixey added that the hall will help support the pier as it "still needs support".

"It keeps £160,000 a year for the pier to be kept safe and open to the public. It doesn't negate the need for people to support the pier," she said.

Peter Stickland, chair of the trust, said the hall will complement the pier by creating new opportunities for exhibitions, arts, culture and community activities.

"Together, these two remarkable buildings will help us celebrate Clevedon's past while creating a vibrant future for residents and visitors alike," he said.

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