Manly Town Hall: Ideas for future use include surfing museum, concert, theatre, cinema
A surfing museum, concert venue, theatre or cinema? Those are some of the ideas for a vacant building in Manly?
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The public is being asked to come up with ideas on how Manly Town Hall could be used in the future.
Following the amalgamation of the three old councils, staff will no longer work out of the site, leaving the historic building available for other uses.
Among the suggestions being put forward include a surfing museum, or a new home for the Manly Environment Centre or the Manly Art Gallery.
Deputy Mayor Candy Bingham said she would like to see it become a multi-purpose performing arts space for a variety of uses such as live theatre, concerts, children’s pantomime and public meetings.
She has formed a committee and has an architect onboard looking at how the space can be reimagined and has taken inspiration from The Studio – one of the spaces at the Sydney Opera House.
“Following the lead of The Studio at the Sydney Opera House, Manly could have a multi-purpose performing arts space which would help reactivate the local economy of Manly and change the night culture,” she said.
Cr Bingham said the architect estimates there would be enough room to accommodate 320 people seated, more if the retractable seats were taken away.
She added that she would also like to see a small theatre created in addition to the main space and possibly a 60-seat cinema.
She said it would not be in competition with the Glen St Theatre which is a community-based venue, whereas Manly could attract international and national artists.
Cr Bingham said ultimately it was up to the public to decide.
She said the committee would put forward its submissions with artist impressions in the next few weeks.
Only last month one of Australia’s hottest bands right now Liam Cordiale, based at Elanora Heights, called for more support for live music, saying Manly needed a proper venue.
Mayor Michael Regan said whatever happens the council will respect and celebrate the heritage of the building.
The former Manly Council purchased the triangular site where Whistler St and Belgrave St meet The Corso in 1909, with £5,000 paid for the site and the building.
By 1910, it was decided a new town hall was needed.
Manly Town Hall was remodelled several times in the early 20th Century. However, in 1937 construction of the new town hall began.
The building was to showcase the modern styles of the time and include the latest technologies including airconditioning and lighting systems. The estimated cost of the building was £15,000.
Over the years Manly Town Hall has been used as administration for Manly Council as well as for community events and exhibitions.
Last year, Council approved the interim use of the Councillors Room, Council Chambers and Cove Meeting Room for community groups and private functions.
“While Manly Town Hall has changed over the years it is still an iconic and much-loved part of the fabric of Manly,” Mayor Regan said.
“I am looking forward to seeing what ideas our community come up with.”
Community can have their say until 16 December 2020.