Wem Town Hall
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CLIENT Shropshire Council
LOCATION High Street, Wem, Shropshire
CONSTRUCTION VALUE Confidential
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Civic Trust Award 2012 - Winner
Reimagining an existing Victorian Town Hall
Wem Town Hall was redeveloped as a lottery funded community arts venue in 1990 following a disastrous fire. The Victorian front façade was retained, but most of the remainder of the building was replaced.
In practice the centre had struggled to justify its revenue costs, and the performance space had proved unpopular in terms of ambience, acoustics and functionality.
Wem Town Hall Trust has now taken over the running of the building, and the media faculty of the local high school have occupied the upper floor.
A new reception area and bar have been installed, to improve the attractiveness of the building from the street. A new draft lobby, and lowered fabric ceilings improve the comfort of this area. The café area is now a busy public space during the day and evening.
A new secure gallery and admin offices have been provided off the reception hall.
The performance area has enhanced acoustic linings to the ceiling, and a new enclosed cinema projection/sound control booth.