Dorking refurb: “it’s behind you”!
Dorking’s “sleeping beauty” will wake up in time for the busy panto season – it has been confirmed.
Dorking Halls closed in June 2024 for refurbishment work that could cost up to £11 million – with the initial focus on replacing the 1930s plaster ceiling in its grand hall as well as much needed mechanical and electrical work.
Mole Valley District Council this week confirmed work was on schedule and Dorking’s flagship theatre is on track to welcome the public through its doors from Monday, December 9.
Councillor Nick Wright, cabinet member for leisure and tourism said: “The pantomime is Sleeping Beauty and I like to think of Dorking Halls as a sleeping beauty that will wake up on December 9.”
With the first stage of work set for completion, the council cabinet agreed on Tuesday, September 24, to release the remaining £6.1m needed to complete phase 2, set to take place next summer.
Cllr Margaret Cooksey (Liberal Democrats; Dorking South), said: “It’s really exciting that we have a date.
“There is a program and everybody is going to be welcomed back into our favourite venue and it won’t be how we have been used to it.
It will take some time to get the hang of it, but it’s an exciting prospect.”
In addition to the new ceiling, guests will notice enlarged toilet provision, a draft lobby and new fire alarms.
Next year’s work will mostly consist of replacing electrical and mechanical installations that are near the end of their useful life.
The meeting heard that new seating, bigger bars and improved accessibility remained a pipe dream for the foreseeable future unless new revenue streams or grants are found.
Instead, the work has been to ensure Dorking Halls continues to meet health and safety standards, with improved visitor comfort and better energy efficiency “while meeting the changing technical requirements for future shows and events”.
Cllr Wright added: “Dorking Halls is a tremendously important part of Mole Valley’s community life.
“It not only serves as a key cultural and arts hub, but also provides opportunities for residents and visitors to gather and celebrate local, British and International talent.
“This beautiful art-deco building, which has served us for so many years, has reached a point where significant investment is needed to continue its community mission.
“I’m pleased that the proposed budget has been approved by Cabinet, and the important upgrades to the building can continue to move forward.”
Shows that had been scheduled to be held at Dorking Halls were shifted to Leatherhead Theatre, the Green Room Theatre and Pippbrook House.
Dorking Halls (image Google)