Epsom makes recommendations for community assets

At a meeting on Tuesday, 14 July, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s Strategy & Resources Committee approved a new direction for its community assets, including Bourne Hall, Bourne Hall Museum, Epsom Playhouse and the Community & Wellbeing Centre.

 The decision follows a Community Asset Review designed to help the council meet its Best Value duties and make stronger use of its buildings as local government reorganisation moves ahead. Epsom & Ewell is due to become part of the new East Surrey Council on 1 April 2027.

The review recommends developing Bourne Hall into an integrated civic and cultural hub, with better links between the library, museum, café, events space and other community uses. It also proposes new operating models for Epsom Playhouse and the Community & Wellbeing Centre. Councillors backed an initial investment of £125,000 this year for Bourne Hall Museum, along with a further £125,000 in year two, to be included in a wider future business case for Bourne Hall.

To support delivery, the committee agreed on capital funding and an extra budget to prepare a detailed business plan, which will return for further approval. Councillor Neil Dallen, chair of the committee, said: “Bourne Hall, including Bourne Hall Museum, Epsom Playhouse and the Community & Wellbeing Centre, are much-loved community spaces that bring people together, support wellbeing and enrich local life.” He added that the aim is to ensure these assets “continue to thrive and serve residents well into the future.”

Any spending above the required threshold will also need approval from the shadow East Surrey Council under Section 24 rules now in force across Surrey.