The repurposing of a Grade II listed building will create a new arts facility for the community and support local creative businesses as part of regeneration of one of Pembrokeshire’s historic town centres.

The Italianate façade of the Temperance Hall in the centre of Haverfordwest has graced the high street since 1889, a symbol of the town’s collective social history.

Cinema, wartime billet and canteen, bingo hall, tax office and Freemasons’ Hall - has seen it all! But after these many incarnations, it has been unused, unloved and empty since 2009. Now it is being given a new lease of life. 

The Temperance Hall will be restored and repurposed to create a new Community Printworks which is set to open in summer 2025. This will include providing an exhibition space, print and design workspaces, and a well-equipped workshop with traditional printing presses which will host an exciting programme of courses.

Heidi Baker, art and design tutor at Pembrokeshire College and founder of Popty Press, said: “Haverfordwest has so much potential, and I feel excited to be part of a new energy reviving the town. Each little pinprick of new activity may be small, but when they all join up we’ll make our town a place we can be proud of.”

One of 12 UK Heritage Development Trusts funded through a partnership between the Architectural Heritage Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Haverfordwest Heritage is now planning the renovation programme. Additional funding comes from the Community Ownership Fund, UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and Sir John Perrot Trust.

An open day at the Temperance Hall on Saturday, June 15, will include tours, exhibitions, with staff on hand to explain the plans for the building and how people can get involved. 

Richard Blacklaw-Jones from Haverfordwest Heritage said: “Community Printworks established in other towns have quickly become successful centres for fun and accessible art making for everyone who wants to have a go, as well as providing access to specialist equipment for professional printmakers.

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone in to find out more on Saturday 15 June at our open day.”