The Times has been given a sneak preview of drawings laying out what town bosses have planned for a new-look Memorial Hall for Dereham. The plans have been drawn up by architects after long discussions between Dereham Town Council and people who use the Norwich Street hall, which has seen life as a coach works, swimming pool and dance hall.

The Times has been given a sneak preview of drawings laying out what town bosses have planned for a new-look Memorial Hall for Dereham.

The plans have been drawn up by architects after long discussions between Dereham Town Council and people who use the Norwich Street hall, which has seen life as a coach works, swimming pool and dance hall.

Consultation on these plans is due to be held before a formal planning application is submitted.

People going to see Othello at the Memorial Hall tomorrow (August 7), will be the first to see them as they will be on show on the night in the venue.

After that they will go on show in the library on dates to be announced.

The plans will see the floor space of the hall increased by 50pc, a new bar area in the currently open alleyway to the left of the hall and a double height foyer in the entrance.

The rear of the building is extended, in the plans, and finished off with a long curved wall facing on to Fleece Meadow.

Town bosses wanted to make the building as flexible as possible so it includes separate office spaces which can be used at the same time as the main hall. New toilets and dressing rooms are also planned.

See this week's Times for the proposals for the hall. Look out in future editions of The Times for dates when the plans will go on display to the public.