UPGRADE TO SANDOWN TOWN HALL FAÇADE HAILED AS BOOST FOR COMMUNITY

Sandown Town Hall’s street-facing façade will get a facelift as part of the building’s ‘much-needed’ restoration.

The Isle of Wight Council’s Listed Building Consent application to refurbish Sandown Town Hall’s frontage on Grafton Street has been accepted.

Approved plans include render repair, parapet alterations and repainting work. The Neo-Classical style building dates from 1869 and is Grade II listed due to its special architectural or historic interest, according to Historic England.

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A youth programme for over 200 young people per week is set to open soon at the hall, offering activities such as sports and study sessions as well as access to a sound studio for music practice.

Consultants ERMC have highlighted the façade upgrade as an ‘important part’ of the building’s restoration, being the ‘first thing people view as they arrive’.

Their submitted Heritage, Design and Access Statement said:

“It is also important for the uplift to Grafton Street and the Sandown community as a whole.

“The façade has cracked in areas allowing for water to ingress into walls. This needs to be fixed, to avoid further damage to the building.

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“The building is 150 years old; there are significant defects with the fabric of the building arising from both its age and the poor quality of previous alterations.

“Work has been ongoing in 2024/5, and the town hall, basement and toilet facilities have been restored and upgraded. However, a large amount of work is still needed.”

The council’s decision report on proposal 25/01104/LBC said:

“Taking into consideration the great weight that should be given to conserving listed buildings, the appearance of the building would change but this is unlikely to result in any harm and would result in the public benefit of improving the overall appearance of the building and helping secure its future.”