Following a grant of £24,750 in 2023 to cover the costs for an initial set of drawings, a 3D walk-through and a feasibility study into the viability of creating a co-working space in the building, Helston Town Council have secured further funding to take the plans for the Guildhall to RIBA stage 4A.
Once these works have been carried out, the Council will be in a stronger position to apply for major funding for the restoration and reimagining of the building. The Guildhall has been identified by Heritage England as a heritage at risk asset so it is a priority for the Town Council to progress this project to ensure that the building is not lost to the community and remains a key landmark for Helston for generations to come.
If successful in securing the funding, this project will see the historic Guildhall transformed into an asset which will benefit hundreds of new users, not only in Helston but across the whole Lizard peninsula. The Courtroom on the first floor is an underused resource and has potential for income generation through use as a corporate and function venue. Once restored, it will be hired out as a wedding venue, as well as for other functions. The ground floor will provide space for community use and will house the Town Council reception. The basement will be converted into a shared workspace for local businesses with meeting spaces and Zoom booths and office space for the Town Council staff.
Energy efficiency and reduction in CO2 emissions will be integral to the future project with plans to install a sustainable heating system, ventilation, insulation and solar panels.
Links to more information and channels:
Website: https://www.helston-tc.gov.uk/Home_1.aspx
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelstonTownCouncil
Twitter: https://x.com/HelstonTCouncil