Bromyard could soon boast a facility unrivalled in Herefordshire if plans to develop the town’s council complex get the go ahead.
The Town Council have agreed that the second option proposed by a feasibility study carried out last year to upgrade the complex is the most appropriate course of action. The study, carried out by independent consultancy firm Ecotec, outlines plans to construct a two-storey link building which would join the current Council Offices with the Heritage Centre and even a restaurant.
The nearby Public Hall would be subject to an extensive upgrade to make use of the adjoining green which would feature a walled garden.
It is hoped the hall could then be developed into a first-rate conference venue with a number of facilities.
A restaurant on the ground floor of the proposed link building would feature as a highlight and it is hoped that it could prove a major attraction.
The Town Council’s commitment to the preservation of car parking space in the town is shown with no plans to build on, or reduce the complex’s adjoining car park.
Council members will consider the plan while options for possible funding through grant money are explored.
Town Clerk Mike Cresswell said it is unlikely that any work will start for two years while funding can be secured.
He said: “It’s going to be a long time coming because it’s expensive and we have to find the money. The whole idea is to join all the buildings together, with a restaurant that could be used by the local community.”
Grant money is available from a number of regional forums, including Advantage West Midlands but Mr Cresswell said that all options had to be looked into.
He added: “There are smaller grants that we can have for redundant buildings for example which of course the heritage centre is at the moment.”
The complex was purchased earlier this year despite protests from several areas of the community although council officials have always argued that the complex should be acquired to prevent it being broken up and sold off for development.
