The Grade I listed building has brought people together through dancing, music and socialising since it first opened in 1771. Inspired by it being a place for everyone, the project will work with local communities, partners and heritage organisations to co-produce a programme of activities including exhibitions, talks and audio trails.
Oral histories will be recorded and archived, preserving memories of the Assembly Rooms for future generations. Historic research will also uncover underrepresented stories of the people who built, worked in and visited the building, which will be shared through events, workshops and learning programmes.
As part of the project, three courtyards will be transformed into welcoming spaces where people and nature can thrive, while two rooms within the building will become free-to-enter community spaces.
Young people will have opportunities to connect with heritage through pop-up activities and events. Volunteering, training and apprenticeships will give the next generation skills and help gain experience in the heritage sector.
Tom Boden, National Trust General Manager for the Bath portfolio, said: “This is fantastic news for Bath. Reconnecting the Rooms will help create new opportunities for the local community to play an important role in shaping the building's future, share the learnings from the building’s past and enjoy the improved outside spaces.”
The project will run alongside the National Trust's £20million restoration programme offering a new Georgian visitor experience.
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