GRAVESEND'S old town hall has moved a “big step” closer to being returned to the community.

At a meeting in the 166-year-old building last week, county and borough councillors agreed to work together to return the civic hall to the people of the town.

The future of the High Street hall and the plight of the many treasures inside it has hung in the balance since it closed as the magistrates' court in June last year.

Gravesham now wants Kent County Council (KCC) to hand back the building, which it bought for the nominal sum of £1 in 1974.

Speaking after last Thursday's meeting, KCC lead member for strategic planning Cllr Frank Gibson said: “It was very productive. We took a big step forward to getting some life back in the building.

“This is a great partnership between the two councils and we will be hoping to create some kind of community or cultural centre for everyone to enjoy.

“Gravesham has made enormous improvements in regenerating the town and this will be part of it.”

County officers will now work together with Gravesham to secure a lasting future for the historic pictures and pieces of furniture inside the building.

A condition survey will be undertaken and the pieces moved out while renovation work is done.

Leader of Gravesham Council Cllr Rosemary Leadley chaired the meeting last week. She said: “It was very positive because it has to be said KCC has let time go by on this.

“There has been some deterioration and our first priority is to make the building weatherproof and safeguard the contents.

“It can be a very impressive building again and has a special place in the hearts and minds of the people of Gravesend but it does need an urgent facelift.”

The Kent Magistrates' Court committee has been told by the Home Office it is no longer entitled to claim any interest in the building and a new use is under review.

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