The mayor of Maitland, Cr Peter Blackmore, officially re-opened the hall on Thursday, after a community open day on Wednesday.

The state government funded the revamp through the Hunter infrastructure and Investment Fund.

“Our town hall has special significance for the Maitland community,” Cr Blackmore said.

“I have many fond memories of attending events in the auditorium and I know that people across Maitland share my affection for the building and its history.”

The refurbishment considerably improves the functionality of the space and its commercial viability as a venue for hire.

Work has included improvements to the lighting and audio visual equipment, replacement of the stage rigging, construction of a new sound lock, and acoustic wall treatments. 

Major work was also undertaken to preserve the original sprung floor. 

A number of upgrades to building services, such as air conditioning modifications and a general repaint of the auditorium interior, have also been completed.

“The refurbishment has achieved an impressive balance of the old and the new,” Cr Blackmore said.

“Not only has the historic auditorium been beautifully preserved, but the project has created a modern and flexible community venue.

“Through this project we have ensured that the town hall can continue to be enjoyed by the Maitland community for decades to come.”