Major refurbishment is planned for Wymondham's Central Hall to bring the 40-year-old building up to date with the 21st century. An essential facility for the local community, the hall has been at the centre of town life ever since it was built in 1967, providing a venue for everything from drama productions, and regular sales to Tai-Chi and slimming classes.

Major refurbishment is planned for Wymondham's Central Hall to bring the

40-year-old building up to date with the 21st century.

An essential facility for the local community, the hall has been at the centre of town life ever since it was built in 1967, providing a venue for everything from drama productions, and regular sales to Tai-Chi and slimming classes. It is also used by a number of clubs and societies for their meetings but is now beginning to show its age.

With a new public library rapidly taking shape next door, the Central Hall Trust management committee has decided the time is right to consider a major revamp that is likely to cost in excess of £200,000.

Everyone in the town is being

given an opportunity to have their say about what should be done to improve the hall and are holding an open day from 10am-1pm on Saturday, February 16. People will be able to discuss their ideas with committee members, and fill in a simple questionnaire.

Neville Coultas, the group's chairman, said: “This is a once in a generation opportunity so it's important we do a good job. Everyone's views are invited so we can obtain a consensus about priorities.

He added that it will be a major process, and not to expect “a lick of paint next week, job done!”

“There is much consultation and planning to do. We also have to raise the necessary funds. Early indications suggest the changes will not come cheaply”.

The refurbishment could include installing central heating and additional toilets, improvements to the acoustics in the main hall, putting in moveable staging to make the building more flexible, tiered seating and more storage space.

With their architect indicating a minimum of £200,000 will be required, the trustees will be looking for external funding and grants from a variety of sources.

Those unable to attend the open day will still be able to participate, as questionnaires will be available in a special holder inside the hall, and at the present library in Beckets Chapel.