Roof repair underway at Belle Bennett Auditorium
Efforts by the City of London Tourism and Parks Commission to repair the roof of the Belle Bennett Auditorium on the former Sue Bennett College campus remain underway.
'As of now, we have taken care of the damage that occurred last summer,' said Phil Smith, chair of the London City Tourism Commission. 'There are several other things that we can do cosmetically to the building; we just have to see what that process looks like as far as community involvement and the commission's desire to move forward with any additional expense.'
The building was donated to the tourism commission in the summer of 2024 after there were structural issues with the roof. Commissioners voted to save the structure by replacing the trusses and installing a new roof.
Two new steel trusses were laid for the building Jan. 29, in place of the prior wooden structures, with the intention of providing stronger stability.
'Work is still underway, but the building is sound, solid, and ready for the next steps in becoming a beautiful asset to the London community once again,' City Tourism Director Chris Robinson wrote in a Facebook post.
Those interested in staying updated throughout the process can leave their contact information in this google form: https://forms.gle/TKg5BNkuhLFePtM89.
London City Tourism will potentially partner with the community to host future fundraising events this spring and encourages those who have ideas about fundraising strategies to also fill out the form.
'There have been potential contributors who came forward offering donations to go toward the renovations and we are hoping for more,' Smith stated.
Smith asserted that the commission is approaching the process cautiously and being mindful of 'each dollar spent.'
'It is exciting to think that we may soon have another place where children and adults can study and participate in cultured, art related events in our community,' said Smith. 'Enhancing the opportunities for creativity and art is essential in our region. The future performances and events may substantially impact Tourism. The project is very exciting, however, the funding side is challenging.'
All in all, Smith expressed the excitement of commissioners, stating, 'It's an incredible feeling to think we are restoring a historical structure that's so significant to so many people.'
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