AFTER years of neglect, one of Felixstowe's most prominent seafront properties is fit for the 21st century - after receiving a modern makeover.

AFTER years of neglect, one of Felixstowe's most prominent seafront properties is fit for the 21st century - after receiving a modern makeover.

The £500,000 project has turned the resort's century-old Town Hall into a light and airy, comfortable modern building which can be used by all the community, while retaining some of its best Victorian features.

Mayor Mike Deacon unveiled a commemorative stone on the front of the building in Undercliff Road West to mark the completion of the project.

The stone - which names all the current councillors - reflects the original opening stone from 1892 on the other side of the entrance steps.

Mr Deacon said he was thrilled with the outcome of the ten-month project.

He said: “It is excellent - it has transformed the building.

“It has been completely restored to its original beauty, and, more importantly, made compliant with the new laws for access for people with disabilities so everyone can come in and use it.

“I think it will be an important asset for Felixstowe for many years to come and, as mayor, I am very proud.”

He thanked everyone who had been involved with the project, especially the council committee which managed the scheme, Felixstowe builders Drake and Plant and architects Rees Pryer.

The newly refurbished rooms provide modern space for exhibitions and displays, wedding celebrations, public meetings and events, and a hub for the civic side of the resort's life.

Mike Stokell, chairman of the town members committee which masterminded the work, said: “We are all extremely delighted.”

The town council bought the building a year ago from Suffolk Coastal, which had done little more than maintenance work during the 34 years it owned it.

Give us your views on the Town Hall project - write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk