IMPROVEMENTS TO PUBLIC HALL
For October 1999 SHIRE
The Public Hall in Station Road has had a major facelift over the summer. There have been three distinct projects. The Hall itself, and most of the ground floor of the building, have been completely rewired. As well as allowing life expired equipment to be replaced, this gives improved access to electrical sockets, and better lighting. During the course of the work, it was discovered that the toilet ceilings contained asbestos. Although this did not present any hazard during normal use, it was necessary for specialist contractors to remove the asbestos in order for the electricians to disturb the ceilings to replace the wiring.
The available budget has not been sufficient to rewire the entire building, but it is hoped that the remaining smaller meeting rooms can be rewired next year.
The second piece of work was to carry out repairs and refurbishment to the stonework and chimney at the High Street end of the building. You may have noticed the scaffolding erected to allow this work to proceed.
The third part of the work has been to completely replace the kitchen. Anyone who has used the old kitchen will know that it was in a very poor condition, and indeed it has only been used for cups of tea for many years. There is now a brand new fitted kitchen with a full range of facilities. If you are looking for a venue for an event or party, the Hall may now be able to meet your needs.
This work has all been carried out by contractors working for Bristol City Council. It is very heartening to see the City investing in the future of this historic community building, after many years when only the barest minimum of maintenance was done.
We hope that these improvements to the Hall will lead to many more people and groups using it. The Community Education Department are moving several classes to the Hall, following the closure of Twyford House. Two of these classes have already started, and a larger group of Basic Education classes will move to the Hall at half term, next month.
If you think the improved Hall could provide the venue you need, ring the Booking Secretary, Jeanette Cossey, on 982 3174, to find out more details.