Exciting proposals to renovate and rejuvenate the historic Sessions House in Spilsby have accomplished a significant progress marker. Listed as a Grade II building, this former court house is poised to become a beacon of art and culture should the current plans receive approval. The ambitious transformation includes extensive repairs, improvements, enhanced access provisions and the addition of a café. Known to be ‘at risk’ by Theatres Trust as of 2015, the site has been the beneficiary of a £5m grant from the government’s levelling up fund this year.
Bruce Knight, trustee of the charity in charge of the operation, shared his enthusiasm at reaching this stage, expressing, ‘This is a remarkable achievement. A great deal of investment into the design and preparatory work has been made.” The plans are currently under review by East Lindsey District Council, and include partial change of purpose and amendments to the existing theatre and bar. Proposed new features encompass community spaces such as a café, meeting room, offices, a heritage display and an al fresco seating area. Knight highlighted how their goals are to transform the theatre into a multipurpose venue with a ‘sustainable future’ and design to serve the needs of the broader public.
Pranali Parikh, the council’s director of economic development, drew attention to the scheme’s potential ramifications, noting, ‘This site is of crucial historical significance to Spilsby and key to the cultural vibrancy of East Lindsey. If approved, the project will not only safeguard this invaluable heritage asset, but also strengthen the local economy and lure visitors to the Lincolnshire Wolds.’ The opportunity is open for residents and other interested parties to share their thoughts on the East Lindsey Planning Portal.
This tale was composed as a transformation from original reporting found at www.bbc.com by The Lincoln Post.
