PLANS to transform Beverley's 19th century parish hall into a visitor and education centre go on show next week.
Planning permission was granted earlier this year for the £1m project which will see the 19th century parish hall in the shadow of Beverley Minster almost double in size with a new glass, brick and stone extension.
The building is currently used b
y at least 18 groups, including the choir, but parish hall officials say they need more space and facilities to meet demand.
Two bids for funding from different sources have been rejected, but it is hoped an application for Lottery tourism funding will succeed so building work can begin in the next two years.
Rev Canon David Bailey said: "While the parish hall is well used by the community and the congregation it is in need of work and renewal if it is to become the facility it deserves to be.
"This project would see us build on what the hall already has to offer, bringing together a historic building and state of the art technology in new centre worthy of standing in the shadow of the Minster."
An open day at the Minster next Tuesday will give members of the public the chance to comment on the proposals and also find out more about longer-term plans for the Minster, including new lighting and seating, improvements which will be phased in over a 10-year period.
The plans will be on show from 10am until 4.30pm.
The open day will also feature music, tours of the roof and the bell tower, and visits to the Friary and the Minster quiet garden.
More than 100 people including civic heads are expected at an evening event.
The parish hall is formerly the Minster Girls School which became part of the property portfolio of Beverley Minster, in the early 1970s following the opening of the new Minster school in St Giles Croft.
For more details or to request a place on one of the roof tours phone 01482 868540 or email minster@beverleyminster.org.uk
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