Purpose

It has been several years since the last
redecoration, and the space has experienced significant use over
time.
The Essex Hall is regularly utilised and generates income for the
theatre cost centre. Although there have been no formal complaints
regarding its appearance, proactive investment at this stage will
prevent future dissatisfaction and will encourage future
bookings.
The theatre’s management has an ongoing list of works and
uses an Action Priority Matrix to prioritise what and when occurs.
(attached)

Content

To seek quotations, award works to contractors
and implement works for the redecoration of the Essex Hall, with
funding sourced from the Princes Theatre restoration fund.
The proposed works include nine key elements:
1.Installation of mouldings along the sections of the walls both
above and below the architrave.
2.Due to previous leakages and heavy use, the front face of the bar
is also to be completely replaced.
3.Complete room redecoration
4.Light sanding and re-varnishing of the floor replacing damaged
areas with wood sourced from another part of the building (the
Theatre storeroom).
5.Replacement of wall lights with modern, energy-efficient LED
fittings in keeping with the proposed décor scheme. Removal
and replacement of the existing down lights in the pelmet above the
bar with led rope light or similar to facilitate the curtain
installation. There will also be replacement of the sockets around
the room to match the proposed scheme.
6.Retractable boards along the front of the bar and the housing for
this to be concealed when retracted.
7.Removal of old, unused storage heaters.
8.Complete refurbishment or replacement of the swing doors into the
Essex Hall to bring them up to both aesthetic standards and
building regs.
9.Replacement of the current commercial ceiling tiles with a more
aesthetically pleasing wainscot effect ceiling panel.
10.The entire project will be managed in-house by the theatre
manager to save costs and to ensure the best outcome for TDC.

Alternative options considered

With the oncoming LGR it is in keeping with
TDC’s policy of placing assets in the best possible
position.
It is not envisaged that this will apply to the schedule of
proposed works, as the scope of works is expected to be completed
within a short timeframe—well in advance of any structural or
administrative changes being implemented within Tendring District
Council or the wider Essex region.