Fire safety breaches discovered at Oxfordshire venue
A closed public hall in Oxfordshire has been found to be in breach of several fire safety regulations, it has been revealed.
Ten significant faults were discovered at the Corn Exchange in Witney's Market Square by building inspectors during their recent examination of the property, reports the Oxford Mail.
The Corn Exchange, which has been closed since November 2011 when the heating and ventilation system was found to be in danger of "imminent failure", featured fire exits which did not provide a safe means of escape.
In addition to new fire exits, the door to the building's upper circle also needs widening to comply with fire regulations, while new boilers also need to be installed.
The Witney Town Council-owned building could be re-opened within six to nine months if it is brought in line with minimum statutory requirements, although the authority is also considering fully refurbishing the hall over a period of up to 18 months.
The nearby Langdale Hall could be sold to fund the renovation work, with the council also considering raising council tax to pay for the costs.
Posted by Ryan Stevens
