After more than a decade of consultation and fundraising, plans to transform Midsomer Norton Town Hall have been given the green light.

The project - which wil “unlock the true potential of this much-loved building” - is part of the Midsomer Norton High Street Heritage Action Zone programme and funded by Historic England, the town council and B&NES Council, with work set to begin in September.

The project will transform the Grade II listed town hall and provide much-needed facilities to ensure the building continues to serve the community for the next 100 years.

The first phase of works will see the original 1860s market hall reinstated on the ground floor alongside a scheme of conservation and repair works.

Once additional fundraising is complete, construction of a rear extension and further improvement works will be made in Phase 2.

“After all the planning, it is great to know that work is actually going to start shortly to unlock the true potential of this much-loved building,” said Donna Ford, town clerk, to Midsomer Norton Town Council.

“Having the market hall reinstated at street level on the high street, adjacent to the redeveloped market square at The Island, will enable us to run markets, events and activities to draw more people to the town centre.

“At the same time, conserving the town hall and improving its facilities will be a huge boost to the 100-plus community groups who support some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Rebecca Barrett, regional director at Historic England said: “We’re delighted that works to the town hall are ready to begin. The project is a key part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone and, along with works to The Island, will create an exciting new public space for markets, arts and cultural events.”

During the project, the Midsomer Norton Community Trust has prepared a plan to provide accommodation to the many community groups who use the building in the assembly room at the town hall, their new ‘Unit 14 Make Space’ facility on South Road and other community spaces, as well as keeping things like the community cinema fully operational.

“This is fantastic news for the community and a real vote of confidence in the voluntary groups based in the town hall who work so hard supporting local people,” said Bev Iles, chairman of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

“Once completed, improved access, storage, kitchen facilities and increased space will transform the way the building can be used.”

Cllr Kevin Guy, B&NES Council Leader, added: “We are delighted to support the Town Hall Transformation Project through the High Street Heritage Action Zone programme and will continue to work closely with the town council to assist their delivery of this exciting and long-held community aspiration. Thriving community spaces, events and footfall are vital for our high streets to flourish, which is why the new market hall and redeveloped market square together will be so important for Midsomer Norton.”

The transformation of the town hall represents one of the final major objectives for the Midsomer Norton Town Council, as set out from its creation and first meeting in 2011. Other achievements include the creation of a town park, the return of the carnival to the town centre and the regaining of Midsomer Norton’s community assets, of which the town hall is one.