COUNCILLORS have supported proposals to fork out nearly £15,000 on repair works at the Guildhall building in Chard.

Members of the council’s Guildhall and amenities committee have supported recommendations to spend £3,900 on bringing the building’s electrics to the required standard; up to £4,255 on improving an area of flat roof; and a further £6,659 on upgrading the existing sound and lighting system in the main auditorium.

The council’s acting town clerk, Robin Williams, told councillors that the electrical work was necessary.

“We need those works done for the Electrical Certificate – without that the Guildhall cannot function,” he said.

He explained that work on the flat roof needed to be done before it became a “far bigger” problem.

Money to pay for the work will come from the council’s £100,000 “sinking fund” for Guildhall maintenance – which is used in case of unexpected emergencies.

Cllr Andy Kenton said: “The work has got to be done.”

A final decision on the work will be made at the next full meeting of the town council.

Cllr Kenton has also called for the installation of air conditioning into the auditorium to prevent discomfort when functions are held during the summer months and are busy with people.

“It can be unbearable,” he said. “Everybody is sweating and it’s horrible, while the changing rooms are like an oven.

“If we want the Guildhall to be the place to be in Chard – we need to be the best. The auditorium is atrocious in the hot days.”

The Mayor, Cllr Dave Bulmer, said: “We have a duty to the people who hire the Guildhall to give them as much comfort as possible.

“If they feel comfortable, they will come back. So getting this done is a win-win situation.”

Councillors have also supported proposals suggested by Cllr Jason Baker for the council to look at improving Wi-Fi provision within the Guildhall and improving its hearing loop systems in the building.