The future of Evesham Town Hall has been secured after Wychavon District Council and Evesham Town Council reached an agreement that places the historic building fully under local ownership and management.

Responsibility for the Grade II listed Town Hall now rests entirely with Evesham Town Council following the transfer of the leasehold from Wychavon. The district council acquired the leasehold as part of its purchase of the Riverside Shopping Centre, while Evesham Town Council already owned the building’s freehold.

The agreement means Evesham Town Council now has full control over the management, maintenance and long-term future of one of the town’s most significant historic landmarks for the first time in many years.

The move comes ahead of Local Government Reorganisation, which will see Wychavon District Council abolished in 2028. Transferring the leasehold was viewed as an important step in ensuring decisions about the Town Hall remain in the hands of the local community.

Councillor Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon District Council, said the Town Hall plays a central role in Evesham’s heritage and civic identity and that placing its future under the stewardship of the town council would help protect it for generations to come.

Mayor of Evesham, Councillor Bill Kimberley, welcomed the agreement, saying it would give the town council greater control over the future of the much-loved building. He added that the council looked forward to ensuring the Town Hall continues to serve the community and remain a focal point of life in Evesham for many years ahead.