Save Water Lane Hall

Aim

We want to save this historic building from demolition and open it as a new community arts hub for local arts groups and performances.

We're raising funds to save a historic building in Bishop's Stortford - and open it as a new community arts hub.

We, the Friends of Water Lane Hall, have successfully campaigned for the local council to remove this building of historic interest from development plans.

Now we have the option to bring the hall into community ownership - and transform it into a much-needed community arts hub.

Water Lane Hall is a historic and unique building that just needs some TLC. We want to provide local arts and creative groups with a space to use and perform; and our community the chance to see grassroots performances on the stage.

Let's give Water Lane Hall back to Bishop's Stortford! If everybody in the town donated £1, we would smash our target!

Our most pressing needs are:

Boiler:  £15k

Fixing up the roof:  £25k

Curtains:  £5k

Stage lighting:  £10k

PA system etc:  £10k

We have set up a Community Interest Company with the purpose of raising funds, renovating and eventually opening and managing Water Lane Hall.

Businesses and Sizeable Donations

We’re offering any donations of £250 or more from businesses or individuals a printed tile within the renovated hall, and £1000+ donations will be commemorated with a plaque.

We’re determined to raise the funds we need to re-open the hall - but there’s a chance we won’t get there. If that happens, your money will be donated to creative and arts not-for-profit projects in the Bishop’s Stortford community, because we believe creativity should be accessible to everyone, not just a privileged few.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 12th August 2026 at 4:16pm