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The Town Hall
For
many years the Town Hall played an important role in
the life of the town but in recent times it has been
neglected and allowed to fall into virtual disuse.
Horsham Council conducted two separate consultations
over its future and on each occasion there was clear
support for its continued use as a community
facility. However, on grounds of cost – both of
maintenance and conversion to improve access - the
Council decided to close it and lease it to a
commercial tenant.
The Society originally opposed proposals to convert
this old building to offices or an exclusive
restaurant, and feeling that it should continue to
be freely available for access by the public.
Plans were announced to convert the building into a
Bill's restaurant. Whilst not the outcome many hoped
for, at least it seemed to put an end to years of
rumour and speculation and offered hope that new
life would be breathed into a much loved old
building and Market Square itself.
Unfortunately, this was not then end of the story
and Bill’s first withdrew and then, after the
Council had placed an open advertisement for the
Town Hall, was again selected and awarded a lease.
Bill’s opened in December 2012.
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