Arts site could close temporarily for maintenance

If approved, Dorking Halls is expected to temporarily in 2026

One of Surrey's "largest and most comprehensive arts and performance" spaces could shut temporarily again if the next phase of its near-£10m revamp is approved, a council says.

Dorking Halls closed in 2024 as Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) agreed to fund £6.1m of "sorely needed" repairs and refurbishments to avoid safety risks and any unscheduled problems.

It was later discovered that work would take longer and cost more than first expected due to rising material and contractor costs, plus the loss of anticipated grant funding.

If the work is approved the venue is expected to close temporarily in 2026 from mid-April to early December next year for the work to be undertaken.

MVDC is now seeking an extra £3.34m of upgrade works to replace outdated air handling units and chillers, cut annual carbon emissions by 75 tonnes with solar panels and heat recovery systems, and bring the grand hall up to modern safety and performance standards, the Local Democracy Reporting Service says.

Nick Wright, the council's cabinet member for leisure and tourism, says Dorking Halls is "central to our community and is key to the local economy".

He says: "Dorking Halls plays a vital cultural role in the district, with a busy programme of shows, concerts and films, as well as hosting youth theatre, school productions, live screenings, and community events.

"It also provides employment opportunities, particularly for young people entering the hospitality sector."

The council's cabinet is expected to agree to the additional funding when it meets on Tuesday ahead of a formal sign off at the following month's full council.