Work begins on Guildford conference venue

Work has begun on building a new conference venue in Guildford after £26 million was allocated to the scheme.

The new centre will be a replacement for the town's Civic Hall, which closed five years ago, and will be on the same site as the old theatre.

Guildford Borough Council has decided that the new venue will be due for completion in 2011 and will house a number of facilities.

Included in the new building will be a 1,000-seat auditorium, a separate 150-seat studio theatre and conference facilities.

The main space will be versatile due to a "retractable lifting platform" which will cover the orchestra pit and mean more performances can be held.

Nigel Manning, lead member for procurement, projects and performance for the council, said: "The new building will provide an exciting main auditorium, versatile studio space, function and seminar rooms. These will help to attract a wide range of high quality entertainment for Guildford residents and visitors to enjoy."

Guildford is not the only town to get a new conference venue, as Dartmouth is set to get a new marina, complete with hotel and exhibition facilities.ADNFCR-1752-ID-19342688-ADNFCR

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