Exciting opportunities for the future of a currently unused hall were explored at a consultation event.

The Duchy of Cornwall is bringing forward plans to convert Jubilee Hall into a 'practical and viable' community space for the people of Dorchester - but the question remains as to what it is going to be converted in to.

A drop-in consultation event was therefore held at the hall in Poundbury, inviting residents from the area to voice their opinions on what they would like to see the hall used as.

Potential ideas for its future include a visitor centre, which could promote walks in Poundbury and the rich heritage of wider Dorchester; a venue for hire; a general community hall with theatre-style seating that will be able to provide a capacity of between 176 to 188, depending on seating arrangement; a food hall or pannier market or shops and cafés.

The event was well attended with residents asked to complete a feedback form to help shape the Duchy's plans and the project moves forward.

Kate Parish from the Dorset Family Partnership Zone attended the event.

She said: "We are interested in providing youth facilities in Poundbury, however we don't believe this building would be suitable for us.

"It's a fantastic space and it certainly shouldn't go un-used.

"It would be amazing if it could be used to improve the arts offering. Arts provision is definitely something that Dorset is lacking. Even if this space was to be used as a gallery from time-to-time, it would be something that could inspire a lot of people."

William Gibbons, chairman of the Poundbury Residents Association, was feeling very positive about the consultation event.

He said: "This is a fantastic site in a great location and needs to be used.

"The public's opinion is of great importance for this, as show with the consultation into The Great Field.

"The Duchy are working very hard and we are glad to be working with them."

Based on the consultation feedback received, the Duchy of Cornwall, along with an architect, will develop a planning application for the fit out and reuse of the building, to be submitted to West Dorset District Council in due course.

The Duchy of Cornwall intend to update the community on the plans for the hall at the Dorset Food and Arts Festival in August.