PLANS on display for the redevelopment of the Armstrong Hall Complex in Thornbury are gaining great interest and support from the public.


The first stage of the redevelopment of the complex, which is estimated to cost around £700,000, is part of a long-term project to introduce new facilities to the town.


Plans can be found on display in the foyer of the Armstrong Hall, in Chapel Street, which is currently used by over 100 clubs and organisations every year as a multi-function entertainment and community facility.


The Armstrong Hall Development Committee is currently seeking guidance on applying for grants towards the project, which will cost several million pounds in total.


Chairman of the development group, cllr Shirley Holloway, said she was very excited by the progress which has escalated in the last few months.


“The Armstrong Hall Complex, which was built in the late 60s, is extremely well used by local organisations and visiting performers, but it is in desperate need of rebuilding,” she said.


“We hope that the first stage of development which is concentrating on back stage provision and new versatile function and practice rooms will be the start of a new era for the whole community.


“It will also introduce more dressing rooms in a versatile space to be used by lots of groups and people.”


“The building is so important for Thornbury - we have high aspirations for the community facility. It is incredibly important to the town.


"The plans are now up so that people can take a look at what may happen to improve the hall which so many groups use.

"We've already had quite a few people in to take a look at the progress of planning, and now we are looking at how to get more grants and raise more funds."


Over the past four years, £60,000 has been raised for the redevelopment project, through a range of events including concerts, film shows, jazz evenings and art club exhibitions, organised by a group of local fundraisers.


To view the proposed plans for the redevelopment visit www.armstronghallthornbury.org.