Community Initiative Renovates Historic Temperance Hall into Print Works and Exhibition Centre

Strategic Insights -

A community-led initiative has secured planning permission to transform the historic Temperance Hall in Haverfordwest into a print works and exhibition centre, incorporating a cafe and private enterprise space. The renovation, spearheaded by Haverfordwest Heritage, will preserve the building's architectural significance while reviving its use after over a decade of vacancy. The Temperance Hall, dating back to 1888-89, boasts a grand stuccoed facade, large arched fanlight, and distinctive pediment, having undergone various uses throughout the 20th century.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Temperance Hall, a Grade-II-listed building, will be renovated into a print works and exhibition centre, featuring a heritage printing centre, temporary exhibition area, cafe, and private enterprise space.
  • The project aims to respect and respond to the building's architectural, social, and historic significance.
  • Haverfordwest Heritage, the community-led initiative behind the project, aims to transform empty heritage buildings into vibrant spaces supporting learning, local enterprise, arts, and culture.
  • The renovation will include a new heritage printing centre, temporary exhibition space, cafe, and private enterprise space, while preserving the building's historical integrity.
  • The Temperance Hall has undergone various uses throughout the 20th century, including housing the Dolphin Inn, a cinema, a WW2 billet for Dutch soldiers, a bingo hall, a Masonic lodge, and an attempted Indian restaurant.
  • The building has stood vacant for over 13 years, during which time significant internal changes were made, including the loss of original tiered galleries and the insertion of a poorly designed mezzanine.

Statistics:

  • The Temperance Hall was built in 1888-89.
  • The building has stood vacant for over 13 years.
  • The renovation will feature a heritage printing centre, temporarily exhibition area, cafe, and private enterprise space.

Sources:

  • "Pembrokeshire County Council: New Planning Applications Submitted" - Tenby Today, (https://www.tenby-today.co.uk/news/planning/pembrokeshire-county-council-new-planning-applications-submitted-829842)
  • "Pembrokeshire farm housing modification gains approval" - Tenby Today, (https://www.tenby-today.co.uk/news/planning/pembrokeshire-farm-housing-modification-approved-for-fewer-affordable-units-828971)