Council to be in 'heart of town'

ARCHITECTS have been appointed to help transform Hornsea's old church hall into a new community centre.

Gelder and Kitchen, based in Hull, have been appointed to convert the former Methodist Church Hall in Newbegin into a new town hall and community facility.

Colin O'Connor, Hornsea town clerk, said: "This is a big step in the biggest task that this council has undertaken since it started in 1974.

"We want to show commitment, as a quality council working with the community, in a centre, which will be used seven days a week in mornings, afternoons and evenings.

"I would like to see us in the building before Christmas, though it is too early to give a more specific timescale."

The Mail first announced the plans last August.

Now the architects have been unveiled, there will be a public consultation.

The church hall and its renovation works will be funded by a public works loan over 25 years.

Colin Embleton, the architect who will be leading the project, was responsible for the recent refurbishment of the adjacent Hornsea Methodist Church.

He said: "This is an exciting project for Hornsea, which will bring the council into the heart of the town, raising their profile and making them more accessible to the public.

"In addition to the council chamber and offices, there is the potential for providing an information point for residents and visitors to the town, as well as opportunities for community meeting, performance, exhibition and display space."

The architects will join a working party, which includes the mayor, Councillor John Miller, deputy mayor, Councillor John Whittle and councillors John Ellerby, Julie Webster and Angus and Jean Robinson.

Cllr Miller, said: "We want a building right for the citizens as well as the town hall.

"We look forward for the community involvement."

Links

Hornsea Local

www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk/hornsealocal

Hornsea Town Council

www.hornsea.gov.uk

Gelder and Kitchen

www.gelderandkitchen.co.uk