An iconic Grade II listed building has been given a new lease of life.
The Literary and Scientific Institute (LSI) on East Street, Bridport, will finally open its doors to the public on Monday after a £2m renovation that took 18 months to complete.
Prior to the work, the institute, known by many as the old Bridport library, had fallen into disrepair having been empty since 1997. It was even places on the national At Risk in 2002.
BEFORE: Prior to the work, the institute, known by many as the old Bridport library, had fallen into disrepair having been empty since 1997
The Bridport Area Development Trust (BADT) – a group of local volunteers – has been working for many years to restore the much-loved building and bring it back into community use following the long period of neglect.
The purpose of the newlook LSI is to offer permanent, temporary and drop-in working facilities as well as event, training and meeting spaces.
WORK SPACE: Training and meeting rooms are available to hire
Bookings are now being taken for work hub desks, training and meeting rooms on the ground and lower ground floors.
OFFICE SPACE: Work hubs are available to rent
At the heart of the building is the The Alembic canteen, an inspiring space to meet friends and colleagues over tea and coffee and the simple but innovative dishes we will be serving.
Leading the team will be Stuart Newman who will bring his experience of South African menus to mix with local ingredients.
The Alembic has applied to West Dorset District Council for a new premises licence for the provision of alcohol and regulated entertainment generally between the hours of 11am and 11pm.
HUB: The Alembic canteen will be open to the public
There will also be the opportunity for pop-up chef evenings and talks and events in aid of the LSI and BADT, whose trustees have worked hard over the years to bring the building back to life.
BADT trustee Amanda Streatfeild said: “[I’m] very pleased finally to be able to welcome the local community to this beautiful old building, which has been so carefully and thoughtfully restored to provide an important amenity to the town.”
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