Councillor Chris Paige is now the chair of the Festival Hall Development Committee - an extremely complex large project. 

Planning permission took two years and authority to proceed (by the planning authorities) has now been given. 

Costs are under the microscope.

The use of the Festival Hall is now over 80% but more obligations are placed on the Council around its operation, Cllr Paige explains.

The 90 year old building needs work and upgrading.

The Committee met on 26th June and received two reports - one from Gennicon (feedback from local groups who use the Hall) and Elucidate with a cost analysis.

The last committee meeting earmarked £95,000 for new detailed drawings on plans but approval will only follow after these reports are digested.

The Committee papers and reports are online and meetings are open to the public at Schedule of Committee Meetings May 2026 – April 2027 – Petersfield Town Council