Dorking Halls reopening after £4m renovation
MOLE VALLEY BOROUGH COUNCILDorking Halls is reopening to the public on Monday, six months after closing for the first phase of its multi-million pound renovation.
First built in 1931 and refurbished between 1994-1997, the Art Deco venue closed in June ahead of a £4m uplift.
Work to replace the 1930s plaster ceiling was extended when it was discovered the original paint contained lead.
Council leader Stephen Cooksey previously said the theatre would offer a better experience for film-goers.
He added: "Whilst Dorking Halls has been closed, the opportunity has been taken to upgrade our film projectors meaning that they will not only present even better-quality visuals, but also run in a greener, more energy efficient, manner."
As well as upgraded cinema projectors, the building features new toilets and a new lobby.
In September members of Mole Valley District Council voted through a further £6.1m renovation of the theatre planned for summer 2025.
There will be repairs to the roof and the installation of environmentally friendly heat pumps and solar panels. Critical mechanical and electrical systems will also be replaced.
Cinema screenings are due to resume on Monday, with the panto Sleeping Beauty starting on 20 December.
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