The refurbishment and restoration works earmarked for Manchester Town Hall have been given the green light.
Due for completion in 2024, it will safeguard the long-term future of the grade I-listed building.
The project involves increasing public access to the site’s heritage features and treasures, and enhancing its Albert Square setting, with 895 documents having been submitted by architect and heritage consultant Purcell.
Refurbishment and repair work is planned for the building’s fabric, doors, windows and roof, and accessibility will be improved with the provision of extra lifts and sloped ramps at the Albert Square and Cooper Street entrances.
Lighting inside and out will be improved along with the restoration and repair of the state rooms’ ornate chandeliers and other lighting of heritage importance. The town hall’s heating will also be replaced and upgraded, linking it with the civic quarter heat network and other infrastructure to reduce energy consumption.
In recognition of the importance of the town hall as a potential major tourist attraction, a dedicated visitor centre is proposed within the town, along with improvements to catering facilities.
The town hall – “the heart and soul of the city” – was built between 1868 and 1877 to replace a smaller building in King Street and cost about £1million, around £125 million in today’s money.
Similar in architectural style to the Palace of Westminster, the building has been used on many occasions as a “double” for the Houses of Parliament in television and film productions.
Cllr Nigel Murphy, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Approval for our plans to secure the long-term future of Manchester’s civic centrepiece is a great milestone in the progress of this hugely complex, once-in-a-lifetime project.
“The detail and care which has gone into the work so far cannot be overstated and while there is much more to do, we’re excited to take another step forward in the journey towards the Town Hall reopening to Mancunians and to the next chapter in its rich history.”
Mark Goldspink, chief executive of Purcell, added: “It is 143 years since the iconic Manchester Town Hall opened and over time this much-loved site has been a public landmark.
“Our aim is to help keep the Town Hall and Albert Square at the cultural heart of Manchester city as a flagship destination.”
The scheme will be brought forward by management contractor LendLease on behalf of the council.
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