Maison Dieu restoration project

A major bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a multi-million pound restoration of the Maison Dieu in Dover has been given the go ahead at a meeting of Dover District Council.

The project is being led by a working group, including Dover District Council, Dover Town Council and the Dover Society.

The earliest part of the Maison Dieu dates back to around 1203, when it was constructed as a place for pilgrims to stop, rest and worship whilst travelling from mainland Europe to Canterbury Cathedral to visit the shrine of Thomas Becket.

Today, the Grade II* Listed building, also known as Dover Town Hall is owned by Dover District Council and leased to Your Leisure who operate the Maison Dieu as a popular venue for community events, concerts, meeting and weddings.

In 2014, a working group was set up to explore options for the future of the Maison Dieu. This led to a feasibility study, as well as a report on the significance of the building, and a recommendation to pursue the restoration of the Maison Dieu and seek investment from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The community use of the Maison Dieu will continue to be the main focus, with the Connaught Hall, Stone Hall, Council Chamber and Court Room hosting events, functions and meetings. The project is proposing new entrances, toilet facilities, disabled access routes, cloak rooms and storage, and is exploring how other parts of the building can be made to work better for the community, including opening the building to visitors, meeting rooms, a new café and self-catering accommodation.