It has been several years since the last redecoration, and the space has experienced significant use over time.
The Essex Hall is regularly utilised and generates income for the theatre cost centre. Although there have been no formal complaints regarding its appearance, proactive investment at this stage will prevent future dissatisfaction and will encourage future bookings.
The theatre’s management has an ongoing list of works and uses an Action Priority Matrix to prioritise what and when occurs. (attached)

To seek quotations, award works to contractors and implement works for the redecoration of the Essex Hall, with funding sourced from the Princes Theatre restoration fund.
The proposed works include nine key elements:
1.Installation of mouldings along the sections of the walls both above and below the architrave.
2.Due to previous leakages and heavy use, the front face of the bar is also to be completely replaced.
3.Complete room redecoration
4.Light sanding and re-varnishing of the floor replacing damaged areas with wood sourced from another part of the building (the Theatre storeroom).
5.Replacement of wall lights with modern, energy-efficient LED fittings in keeping with the proposed décor scheme. Removal and replacement of the existing down lights in the pelmet above the bar with led rope light or similar to facilitate the curtain installation. There will also be replacement of the sockets around the room to match the proposed scheme.
6.Retractable boards along the front of the bar and the housing for this to be concealed when retracted.
7.Removal of old, unused storage heaters.
8.Complete refurbishment or replacement of the swing doors into the Essex Hall to bring them up to both aesthetic standards and building regs.
9.Replacement of the current commercial ceiling tiles with a more aesthetically pleasing wainscot effect ceiling panel.
10.The entire project will be managed in-house by the theatre manager to save costs and to ensure the best outcome for TDC.

With the oncoming LGR it is in keeping with TDC’s policy of placing assets in the best possible position.
It is not envisaged that this will apply to the schedule of proposed works, as the scope of works is expected to be completed within a short timeframe—well in advance of any structural or administrative changes being implemented within Tendring District Council or the wider Essex region.