A popular Surrey cinema, theatre, café, and bar will shut its doors until the end of 2024 from Monday (June 3) for a period of work that will include the replacement of the plaster ceiling in the Grand Hall. The discovery of lead in paint at the venue, however, meant the original period of time needed for the planned closure had to be extended. This extension means the next live show at Dorking Halls is expected to be the Sleeping Beauty Christmas pantomime, while cinema screens are set to reopen in mid-December.
The renovation of the town’s 1930s Art Deco venue is anticipated to take more than six months - nine weeks longer than first thought as a result of the lead paint discovery. Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) and Dorking Halls apologised to customers, hirers, and event organisers for the inconvenience caused. A spokesperson for MVDC described the delay as “disappointing” but outlined the work is necessary and that safety is a priority.
Read more: Inside the cosy 16th century Surrey pub up for sale for first time in 40 years Read more: The hidden paradise lagoon in Surrey so pretty you don't even need to go abroad for a holiday The council’s Member for Leisure and Tourism, Nick Wright, commented: “While it is disappointing that we will not be able to reopen Dorking Halls in October as originally planned, these works are vital to the long-term future of this iconic building. The work must be done and it must be done safely.” He continued: “But although.