The pandemic has impacted the town in many ways and with it the Town Council has also been directly affected, with several local organisations terminating their leases at the Manor House and many community groups unable to hire local community facilities.
Sherborne Town Council is therefore proposing to sell the Manor House located on Newland and is considering how the nearby Digby Hall complex, based on Hound Street, could be modified and potentially expanded to include the development of a community hub-style facility at the site.
The council offices, as well as office and meeting provision for other local organisations, would be created at this new location. Feasibility work is about to start on planning how the Town Council can engage and work with other key partners, including Dorset Council, to improve access for residents to council and community information and services. The library, also located on this site, is seen as a key part of this potential project. Discussions with all relevant statutory bodies and local organisations will commence over the coming weeks.
The Town Council will be establishing an inclusive working group made up of all town councillors, members of the staffing team, relevant local organisations, and professionals associated with design and construction of any agreed works.
The Town Council will make any future decisions during public meetings, based on the recommendations from the working group and will ensure that regular communication is produced during all stages of this process.
Steve Shield, Sherborne Town Clerk said “The Town Council recognises that it is now time to consider a relocation away from the Manor House following both the impact of the pandemic locally and ongoing maintenance costs associated with our current premises. I would welcome the opportunity to develop a suitable working environment for the Town Council and relevant local organisations working in collaboration for the best interests of the town.”
Daniel Cadisch, Chief Officer of Citizens Advice Central Dorset, who currently has office and meeting space within Manor House, said ‘Citizens Advice is committed to serve the Sherborne community in the long term. Working in partnership with Sherborne Town Council and other local organisations allows us to deliver the most effective and efficient service. We look forward to exploring potential new locations alongside our partners in Sherborne to allow us to plan ahead for many years to come.’
If you have any questions regarding this article please contact the Town Clerk, Steve Shield on 01935 812807.