Wiltshire Council secures future of Trowbridge Town Hall with 10-year lease to local trust
The building is expected to reopen to the public next month
Wiltshire Council has announced that it has formally agreed to grant a 10-year lease of The Old Town Hall to the Trowbridge Town Hall Trust.
The lease is due to start in October 2025 and ensures the Trust can continue to manage and develop the Grade II listed building as a vibrant cultural and community hub. Permission has been given to allow the Trust to undertake works ahead of the site opening to the public.
Trowbridge Town Hall Trust, a registered charity, has managed the building since 2012. The Old Town Hall temporarily closed on 29 July 2023 to allow for the major refurbishment programme to commence as part of the £16 million Future High Streets Fund investment aimed at revitalising Trowbridge town centre.
Once reopened, the transformed Old Town Hall will offer a dynamic mix of creative and community spaces, including purpose-built performance and activity spaces, a licenced café bar and refurbished areas for a wide range of community activities.
The building is expected to reopen to the public next month.
Cllr Ian Thorn, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “We are delighted to confirm this long-term lease with the Town Hall Trust which provides the stability needed to plan for the future and expand their community impact.
“The 10-year lease reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding The Old Town Hall’s historic legacy while supporting its evolution as a centre for creativity, collaboration and civic pride.
“Although Wiltshire Council had originally intended to grant a 125-year lease, a shorter term was mutually agreed upon to support the Trust in its new chapter of running this building.
Cllr Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Communities, added: “The Old Town Hall is the centrepiece of the Future High Streets Fund investment in Trowbridge, and I am delighted that the Trust will continue to lead its next phase. This historic building has been beautifully transformed into a venue that will support a wide range of activities, boosting both the daytime and night-time economy. I can’t wait to see it reopen and welcome the community back through its doors.”
Tom Maddicott, Chief Executive Officer of the Town Hall Trust, said: “We are thrilled to be able to move forward and reopen this stunning building as a vibrant hub of creativity for the community.
“To be able to open our doors and welcome people in to see for themselves the incredible work that has been done will be a very special moment, and we look forward to putting on an exceptional programme of events for everyone.”
Cllr Stewart Palmen, Trowbridge Town Council, added: “I am looking forward with eager anticipation for the first live band to play in the restored Ballroom which will be a fantastic venue that the good people of Trowbridge can be proud of!”