Epsom and Ewell Arts Festival organisers to turn "eyesore" Horton Chapel into community hub?

March 2013: Residents and community groups needed for Horton Chapel conversion

October 2015: Epsom Residents Association plan sale of historic Horton Chapel if right offer is made

The community group behind Epsom and Ewell’s first arts festival are hoping so, and are putting together a business plan to save Horton Chapel and renovate it for use as a venue for arts and music events, workshops and exhibitions.

MGSO4 members viewed the disused Victorian chapel with representatives of Epsom and Ewell borough council’s Strategy and Resources Committee on Wednesday, November 18.

Chair and festival director Sarah Dewing urged councillors to consider the group’s community bid before seeking commercial and speculative bids.

She said: "Turning the chapel from a derelict eyesore into a vibrant place-to-be is an ambitious vision but with hard work, commitment and a sound business plan, it is entirely achievable.

"Everyone knows that a lot is at stake and those we spoke to were very much against the chapel being sold to private owners."

Covenants on the building state it must be used for community or health purposes.

Simon Young, head of legal and democratic services at the council, said although aspirations for the building to serve the community were clear, no viable offer has been made since the chapel was handed over to the council in 2004.

He said: "We fully acknowledge that a community bid would not offer as much as commercial bid - the cash value is not the be-all and end-all.

"We can dispose of the building to an under-value if we think that the social value offered is the best decision to make for the building."

What do you think the chapel should be used for? Email letters@epsomguardian.co.uk