Somerset town undergoes major transformation as work begins on bridgwater arts and entertainment venue
Bridgwater is set to embark on a new chapter in its cultural evolution as construction work begins on the highly anticipated £5.4 million redevelopment of the town’s historic council hall and theatre. The project, undertaken by John Perkins Construction, aims to revitalise one of the town’s most iconic landmarks, breathing fresh life into Bridgwater’s cultural and community offering.
With full planning permission and listed building consent now secured, the ambitious project will see the Grade II listed Town Hall transformed into a state-of-the-art theatre and multi-purpose community hub. The revamped space is expected to significantly enhance the experience for performers, audiences, and visitors, while playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the future of Bridgwater’s rich artistic and cultural traditions.
This extensive renovation is viewed as essential to the continued success of the Bridgwater Carnival, one of the largest illuminated carnivals in Europe and a cornerstone of Somerset’s cultural calendar. The carnival, which dates back to the late 1600s, draws thousands of visitors to the town each November. The annual carnival concerts, which first took place at the Town Hall in 1883, remain a key feature in the lead-up to the main procession. These concerts, traditionally held throughout October, are a major attraction, routinely selling out and generating vital revenue that helps finance the elaborate illuminated floats.
The redevelopment project is not merely about restoring the theatre’s former glory but also seeks to modernise the building’s accessibility and improve its environmental sustainability to ensure it remains a vibrant hub for generations to come.
A key feature of the works includes the construction of a new atrium to replace the outdated 1950s structure currently attached to the building. The addition of this contemporary space will create a central hub offering enhanced circulation, visitor facilities, and much-needed administrative spaces, making the building more functional and welcoming to a broader audience.
Rupert Perkins, Managing Director of John Perkins construction, spoke of his pride in being involved in the transformation of such a significant local building. He said: “At John Perkins construction, we are extremely proud of and attached to our roots in this part of south west england. We feel very privileged to have the opportunity to be part of the team making such a positive intervention in the rich history of Bridgwater town hall, leaving it as a beacon to encourage further investment and development in the town for the benefit of the residents.”
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The regeneration project is seen as a catalyst for wider economic activity in Bridgwater, boosting the town’s status as a cultural destination and drawing new visitors and shoppers to the refurbished town centre.
Councillor Tim Mander, Chair of Bridgwater Town Council’s Amenities Committee, welcomed the redevelopment, describing it as “long overdue”. He said: “The investment in updating and restoring this iconic Grade II listed building is long awaited and part of an important regeneration of this section of the High Street. The renewed facility will serve as a focal point for arts, culture, and community engagement, helping to drive footfall back into the town centre.”
With construction now underway, the project is on track to establish Bridgwater’s Council Hall and Theatre as a premier arts and entertainment venue in Somerset. The redevelopment reinforces the town’s commitment to culture, accessibility, and sustainability, ensuring the landmark building continues to play an integral role in the life of the community while positioning Bridgwater firmly on the cultural map of the South West.
The transformed venue is set to serve as a modern-day cornerstone for Bridgwater’s vibrant arts scene, supporting existing events while paving the way for new cultural and economic opportunities in the years to come.
