The Commemoration Hall in Huntingdon is set to undergo a wide-ranging redevelopment this year, with up to £1million potentially being spent on the building.

Plans are yet to be finalised for the project, which could take up to 18 months to complete, but ideas so far include improve lighting, refreshment areas and refurbishing the toilets.

James Rowe, chairman of trustees at the hall, said: “We plan to modernise the interior and upgrade all of the existing facilities such as dressing rooms, lighting, sound, as well as bar areas, bathrooms, and other amenities, retaining it as a multi-use space.

“This will attract a broader range of performers to the venue — something that is missing from a town the size of Huntingdon.

“We aim to create a space which can be a showcase for local artists and musicians, a venue for comedy and film nights, and a café, right in High Street.”

Application for funding is scheduled begin in October, but not before a public consultation period in August.

Members of the public will be asked to submit their own ideas for the hall, and how it can be improved.

Scott Hutchinson, trustee and project manager, said: “We’d like to know what locals want from the hall. One of the saddest things I would find was coming back from work in London and seeing it was empty. There’s no reason it should be in darkness during the week.”

The hall dates back to 1842, originally called the Huntingdon Literary and Scientific Institution.

Since then, its basement was converted to house a Second World War air raid shelter before being bought for £2,705 in 1956 and re-opened as The Commemoration Hall.

For more information and to submit your ideas, contact Marilyn Bailey on 01480 455167, or at marilyn.bailey@commhall.org.uk.