News

Chichester City Council enhances venue facilities with commercial-grade kitchen upgrades

Chichester, 3 June 2025 – Chichester City Council is delighted to announce the recent upgrade of catering facilities at The Council House, situated on North Street. These enhancements improve both the ground-floor kitchen and the first-floor Crush Bar kitchenette, allowing for a wider range of events and meeting the diverse needs of hirers.

The Council House on North Street Chichester

The ground floor kitchen has been fully refurbished to commercial-grade standards, offering improved functionality and hygiene for professional and community use. The upgraded features include:

  • Stainless steel work surfaces and splashbacks
  • A commercial range cooker with extraction system
  • Microwave
  • Double fridge
  • Warming cabinet
Crush Bar
Crush Bar Credit: Chichester City Council

The newly upgraded kitchen and catering facilities at The Council House make it an excellent choice for receptions in the Assembly Room or Old Court Room. With the Council Chamber a licensed wedding venue, The Council House can seamlessly accommodate every aspect of your special day. Its prime location in the City Centre also makes it an ideal setting for networking breakfasts and professional meetings.

Crush Bar Social Space
Crush Bar Social Space Credit: Chichester City Council

In addition, the first-floor Crush Bar kitchenette has been significantly improved, making it a versatile space for serving refreshments and light catering. New features include:

  • Stainless steel surfaces and splashbacks
  • Commercial under-counter freezer
  • Water boiler
  • Microwave
Assembly Room Kitchenette
Assembly Room Kitchenette Credit: Chichester City Council

The adjacent bar area has also been enhanced with:

Ground Floor Kitchen
Ground Floor Kitchen Credit: Chichester City Council
  • A small glass washer
  • A large wine fridge
  • Crush Bar social space has been decorated and complimented with new flooring

The Assembly Room is a fantastic for live concerts and performances, offering an immersive atmosphere for guests. The Crush Bar provides excellent facilities to ensure seamless service and hospitality. Additionally, connectivity at The Council House has been upgraded with a Wi-Fi Mesh Network, guaranteeing smooth and secure transactions at the bar.

Commercial Double Fridge
Commercial Double Fridge Credit: Chichester City Council

“These upgrades ensure our venues continue to meet the evolving needs of our community,” said Andrew Watson, Property Maintenance Manager, Chichester City Council. “Whether hosting a public event, private celebration, or community function, hirers can now benefit from modern, professional-standard facilities.”

The upgraded kitchens are available for use by all approved venue hirers. For booking enquiries or to arrange a viewing, please visit https://chichestercity.gov.uk/room-hire/  or contact Claire Adams on 01243 788502 or email: roombookings@chichestercity.gov.uk