Planning for The Armstrong Hall reopening project is intensifying and becoming more detailed as more information becomes available.
We expect to have a significant update for everyone early in 2025 setting out the reopening plans.
Our thoughts are to have a public meeting supported with a brochure that addresses many of the key matters we are sure you are all asking about.
The feedback from our recent community questionnaire has been invaluable, confirming many of our thoughts and offering new insights. We’re grateful to everyone who contributed.
It’s clear that Thornbury, as a town, needs this venue, which should serve as a space for large group meetings, a theatre for local and visiting audiences, and a hub for amateur dramatic and musical performances.
We also want it to be an inclusive, creative space at the heart of the town, offering a welcoming environment for a range of social activities.
It is also very important for us to be aware of how it will fit into the town, in terms of avoiding competition with the other businesses. We must try to support those businesses, not increase their problems, and want to bring more footfall into the centre, despite the impending parking charges. We’re looking forward to speaking to the Chamber of Commerce in January, and hope to work in partnership with all local organisations for mutual benefit.
One such organisation is The Castle School. A meeting with the Headteacher indicates that there are fantastic opportunities for working with them, especially to help our local young people access the arts and learn about the strength of our fabulous community.
This meeting confirmed how special Thornbury already is in terms of community engagement.
The building team is working hard on determining the necessary building work. It is essential to be compliant with regulations including those relating to improved energy efficiency. The complete focus remains on reopening the venue as soon as possible, while heeding all the professional advice we are receiving. We’re also working to improve the foyer for better accessibility, as indicated by the questionnaire.
There is still juggling to be done to finalise a sound and achievable plan, but our intention is to gather all the final pieces of information and advice needed in order to complete it.
The jigsaw is coming together!
We are grateful to the Thornbury Town Council representatives of the Trustee who continue to provide us with lots of help and encouragement.
Thank you for your support in 2024. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!
@mythornbury