Harpenden Public Halls
 

Work is under way behind the "Inn on the Green" (just opposite the present Harpenden Halls) to lay the foundations (starting with the swimming pool) for the new Harpenden Public Halls. The present halls will not be demolished for flats until the new halls are opened and are ready for use possibly next summer. Uncertain at this time as to the layout of the new halls and whether there will still be ground floor areas or whether use of lifts or stairs will be required, but I would have thought that given the location of the new halls, there should be more than adequate parking availability.
Neil

Re: Harpenden Public Halls
 

I wonder if the new Pubic Halls will be affordable as a BVWS venue into the future?

I may be mistaken, but I thought that BVWS were inviting suggestions for an alternative venue.

Don't know where things stand at the moment.

Re: Harpenden Public Halls
 

The answer to David's second point will presumably be based on the answer to the first (and, as Neil raises, whether they will even be suitable).

Re: Harpenden Public Halls
 

I feel a bit sad that the Harpenden Public Halls will be demolish, yes it's a modest 1930's structure with no important architectural features, yet it's a charming building of its time. Buildings of this type are increasingly becoming a rare sight.
Harpenden will be a poorer place when it's gone.

Re: Harpenden Public Halls
 

Sadly all down to money, and yes an alternative venue is I think still open to suggestions.

Re: Harpenden Public Halls
 

An update on the situation is this:

As regards the replacement venue at Harpenden, we have not yet been able to receive any confirmation on either completion date, cost, parking or catering arrangements. Every time we enquire, the date for closure of the existing hall seems to get pushed back... It was originally end of 2019, in March we were told now 2022!

The September meet will still be at the existing hall.

All the alternative venue details kindly suggested have been filed and we will be making enquiries in due course.

I'll keep you up dated as and when I have more to report...

Best regards