Members of the public will be able to get an inside look at the ongoing refurbishment of Fairfield Halls, as Open House Weekend returns to Croydon.
The venue, currently undergoing a £30million refurb, is opening its doors for four sold out tours of 25 people on Saturday – the first time the public have been inside the iconic venue since the Open House London festival of architecture and design was held last year.
Councillor Oliver Lewis, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport, said: “Open House Weekend is a fantastic opportunity for people to take a look at some of the wonderful architecture in London and I’m glad Croydon is taking part in it once again.
“Those lucky enough to visit Fairfield Halls will be able to take an exclusive look at this much-loved venue, and see the work that has been going on since the last time it opened its doors.
“Croydon has a rich architectural history and there’s also the opportunity to see some of the borough’s historic buildings.”
Other buildings open to view over the weekend include: Airport House, The world’s oldest air traffic control tower; Stanley Halls in South Norwood; the Whitgift Almshouses; Old Palace, a Grade I listed manor house and former residence of Archbishops of Canterbury from the 13th to 18th century; Bernard Weatherill House, Croydon Council’s offices; the Town Hall, Thornton Heath Library and Shirley Windmill.
Access to the buildings and walks is free. Some are open on a first-come, first-served basis, but others require pre-booking. For more information visit Croydon’s page on the Open House website.
