Chartered Builders, Greendale Construction Limited has started a 34 week project at Dorchester Corn Exchange which will see the historic building benefit from a number of improvement and remodelling works, including, new WC’s, a new bar area, a complete knock-through on the ground floor, and works to the Town Hall. The renovation will restore the building’s original layout, with a new community meeting area created, and the foyer transformed into a welcoming, light and bright space for audiences and visitors, with a new accessible reception and box office.
Having commenced on 5th August 2024, the works are due for completion on March 31st 2025, with the building remaining largely ‘open for business’ for Dorchester Arts packed events and performance schedule.
Dorchester Corn Exchange is a Grade II* Listed Building of two storeys with walls of Broadmayne brick with Bath and Portland stone dressings, and a tile of slate roof over. The building was designed by Benjamin Ferrey and erected in 1847-1848 by the builder Samuel Slade. Originally comprising of a corn exchange, assembly hall, and council chamber, a new market and police station were added later in the 19th century. The clock turret was added in 1864 and became known as ‘Galpin’s Folly’ after Mayor Galpin who partly paid for it and who approved Benjamin Ferrey’s designs for a tower on a slender pillar, which at the time caused public concern that the tower would fall off.
Mark Tattersall, Artistic Director of Dorchester Arts, commented: “We are hugely excited about the transformation of this historic gem in the heart of the county town. Greendale Construction’s experience of working in heritage buildings is incredibly valuable, as is their flexibility and consideration in working around our programme of performances and events, which will continue throughout the project.”
Rob Hooker, Director, Greendale Construction, commented: “Greendale are proud to be main contractors at the Corn Exchange, Town Hall project. Our team is collaborating closely with our clients and the designers to deliver these important refurbishment and improvement works to such a historic building.”
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