A FORMER hotel, pub and stable which dates back to 1885 has been unveiled under its new guise - a community information centre.
Victorian beams and arches remain but Sams Hall in Clacton's Rosemary Road is now fit for the 21st century.
Remote-controlled skylights, a glass lift and disabled-friendly ramps have been installed as part of a £350,000 project that took seven months.
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Tendring Community Voluntary Services (TCVS) has opened an IT suite and two meeting rooms - Sams Hall and Scott's Garden Studio, named after former TCVS chairman Ken Scott - next to its Imperial House HQ.
There is also a new car park, kitchen, toilets, patio and reception area.
Sharon Alexander, chief executive officer, said: "The revamp has already made the centre more attractive to young people.
"And it is fantastic to bring volunteers who have been with us for many years up to the first floor for the first time.
"We are so happy but we still have to put in a few finishing touches and we will continue to improve it."
Mrs Alexander thanked the Interaction Partnership Board which contributed about £325,000.
The board was set up with a £3.8 million Government grant to improve life for residents in Clacton's Pier and Jaywick's Golf Green ward.
Chairman Mick Page said: "This building is one of our major achievements and it is something Clacton can be proud of."
The Catalyst charity in Colchester boosted the project with a £25,000 grant.
Imperial House became the hub of the voluntary centre in Tendring in 1998 and houses seven charities including Help the Aged and Family Support.
About 160 groups are affiliated to TCVS, more than 20 organisations hold events and meetings in the Imperial House centre and 500-plus people use the building every week.
The extension will be officially opened by Lord Hanningfield, Leader of Essex County Council, on Friday, July 4.
n The Sams Hall ICT suite and meeting rooms are available for hire and the public can drop in to find out more about voluntary groups in Tendring. Call 01255 425692 for more information.
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