Shire Hall in Dorchester gets lottery boost (From Dorset Echo)

Shire Hall in Dorchester gets lottery boost

2:06pm Friday 15th March 2013 in News

A HISTORIC building in Dorchester will be transformed into an internationally-important heritage centre after winning lottery support.

The Shire Hall, which includes the Old Crown Court and Cells, is famous for the trial of the Tolpuddle Martyrs in 1834. It is within the former offices of West Dorset District Council.

The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has given its initial support towards a project which should see the Grade I listed Shire Hall transformed into a visitor centre with high quality exhibitions and educational resources. West Dorset District Council launched the funding bid last year to help safeguard the county town’s unique history and attract more visitors to the area.

Part of HLF’s initial support includes development funding totalling £69,000 to get the project to the planning application stage. After this work is completed a second round funding application will be made to the HLF to apply for the full amount needed for the scheme.

Leader of West Dorset District Council Robert Gould said: “I am thrilled that we have succeeded in winning this money from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This is on top of the £1million that the district council has pledged to make this exciting project a reality.

“The Shire Hall is a fascinating building with a unique and special history.”