Plans to restore and upgrade Chipping Norton Town Hall have moved forward after the project secured initial support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The proposed £3 million scheme has successfully passed the Expression of Interest stage, enabling the Town Hall Restoration Group to begin developing a full Round One funding application over the next 12 months.
The Town Hall Restoration Group, made up of councillors and local volunteers with experience in architecture, sustainability and heritage, will now undertake a series of technical studies alongside public consultation.
Next phase to focus on design, surveys and community input
This phase will assess how the building can be adapted to meet modern requirements while preserving its historic character.
Community engagement is expected to play a key role in shaping proposals for future use.
Built in 1842, the Town Hall has served as a central civic and cultural venue for more than 180 years, hosting council meetings, public events and community activities.
The project aims to address a number of building condition and performance issues that have developed over time. These include damp, roof leaks, damaged ceilings and dry rot, alongside poor insulation and ageing building services.
Accessibility limitations have also been highlighted, with current arrangements preventing full internal movement for wheelchair users. Existing heating, lighting and ventilation systems are described as outdated, contributing to higher running costs and reduced user comfort.
Plans to improve sustainability and accessibility
Proposals under development include upgrading the building fabric and services to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, alongside measures to improve accessibility and flexibility of internal spaces.
Tom Festa, Chair of the Town Hall Restoration Group and Chipping Norton Town Councillor, said: “The Town Hall is an exceptional heritage landmark. Our vision is to secure its future as a restored, welcoming, adaptable, and sustainable civic hub.
We aim to conserve and showcase the building’s original architectural character while introducing energy-efficient heating, insulation and lighting, guided by a full energy audit and upgrade strategy. This will reduce both the carbon footprint and running costs, in line with local and national climate goals.
We also plan to achieve full internal accessibility, redesign flexible meeting and event spaces for all ages and abilities, and ensure the building remains affordable for community groups.
Alongside this, we will establish robust management structures, build operational reserves, and diversify income through increased lettings, hospitality, and creative programming while embedding public engagement and user feedback at the heart of governance.”
The project reflects wider trends in the refurbishment of heritage assets across the UK, with a focus on improving sustainability, accessibility and long-term viability while retaining historic significance.
