MILL Hall is set to reopen later this year after the council agree it is the “best way forward”.

At a meeting last night, the Executive of Rochford Council agreed to reopen They Mill Arts and Events Centre in Rayleigh.

The site has been at the centre of controversy, following continuous debates to the future of the building.

After extensive consultation with residents, and community groups, three options were placed on the table: To continue to consider a new build facility, to keep The Mill mothballed, and finally to reopen open The Mill.

The Executive has now finally agreed to go with reopening Mill Hall in September 2022.

Simon Wootton, leader of Rochford District Council, said: “I am delighted that my Executive colleagues agree with me that reopening The Mill is the best way forward for us to achieve our shared ambition of a facility that serves the diverse needs of our local communities, that enhances the public realm in Rayleigh, and gives our residents a real voice in an asset that is at the heart of our local life.”

The Council will work in partnership with its leisure partner Fusion Lifestyle to maintain, staff and operate the building in the immediate short-term.

Along with the reopening of Mill Hall, the meeting also announced The Freight House will also be reopened.

This is an advance of the Council taking a formal decision regarding commencement of refurbishment and development works at the site.

The reopening will be as soon as possible, but there is no set date.