The building was purchased by the council as part of wider regeneration plans for the area but was later removed from those plans following a change in political leadership.
Last year, a full structural survey revealed that the hall would require at least £1.6 million to repair and restore. While the council has allocated some funding for essential maintenance, this remains significantly lower than the amount needed to bring the building back into full use. Following the survey, local groups were invited to put forward ideas for how they might manage and operate the site.
The council is now seeking public views on four potential options for the future of Water Lane Hall:
Transfer ownership to the Friends of Water Lane Hall to reopen as a community and culture venue
Sell the building commercially on the open market with funds reinvested into the town
Work with local businesses to create more space for retail
Demolish the hall to make way for other uses.
Each option has been assessed for its benefits and risks, and the council is encouraging all who live or work in Bishop’s Stortford to read the information provided and rank the options in order of preference.
Councillor Mione Goldspink, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods at East Herts Council, said: “We want to hear from as many people as possible before any final decision is made about the future of Water Lane Hall.
“This building holds significance for many local residents, and it’s important that the next steps reflect the needs and aspirations of the community. Whether you feel strongly about preserving it, redeveloping the site, or exploring new uses altogether, your views will help guide a choice that will shape this part of the town for years to come.
“I encourage everyone – residents, local organisations and businesses – to read through the options carefully and tell us what you think.”
The survey is open until 5pm on Monday, 9 March, and face-to-face engagement will take place in the town centre from 23 February. Please visit https://yourvoice.eastherts.gov.uk/waterlanehall to have your say.