Proposals to bring buzz and bands back to Guildhall now submitted

Plymouth’s Guildhall could be going back to the future with plans that will help to bring back gigs and more events now submitted to planners.

Plymouth City Council has submitted an application for planning and listed building consent, with changes they hope will bring back the buzz and the bands to the building that has seen Bowie, Queen and The Who perform there.

The design has been carefully put together to make sure any upgrades minimise impact on the Grade II listed building where possible. It is also designed to create space for a variety of other uses, such as other entertainment events, conferences, training, weddings and hot-desking.

Changes proposed:

For the Great Hall – measures to improve lighting, audio visuals and sound. Trusses to be installed allowing AV, light and sound equipment to hang from the ceiling. Acoustic panels and curtains will be installed to improve the sound quality and will be coordinated with existing ventilation grilles, chandelier lighting. A new modular stage to offer more options – catwalk, smaller stage or theatre in the round to attract a wider variety of users and events

Entrance – a disabled access ramp installed at the front, the main doors refurbished and security gates removed

Lifts – the existing lifts refurbished. Accessible platform lifts installed to the lobby stairs and 1st floor tea bar area improving accessibility for all users

Toilets – refurbished and remodelled and an increase in number

Lounge Bar and Drake Room Bars – the existing bars replaced with a longer versions and more space for serving, including lower counter areas to support people with disabilities

Drake Room – a free standing lighting truss and acoustic panels to be hung from the ceiling improving the acoustics and AV flexibility for events

Kitchen area in the main hall to be equipped to enable more flexible catering for events. The kitchenettes and tea bars will also be upgraded and refreshed

Astor, Charter and North Rooms – upgrades to lighting, glazing and furniture. A moveable acoustic wall will be provided between the Charter and the