Restoration plans for Manchester Town Hall approved

Plans were approved yesterday (January 16) for a full restoration of Manchester Town Hall.

The plans include restoration to the doors, windows and roof, improved accessibility, improved lighting and heating, and the creation of a designated visitor centre.

The plans also include secured protective measures to ensure that the heritage of the building is protected.

According to the council, the project is already providing employment and training opportunities for local people, including a group of 15 apprentices.

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.’

Simon Gorski, managing director of the construction group Lendlease Europe, said: ‘The town hall is a project with the local community at its heart, and it is incredibly important that they see the benefits of this scheme from day one.

‘That’s why we’ll be providing more jobs for local people, offering training and work placements and continuing to work closely with local stakeholders.’

Earlier this month (January 8), plans were announced to restore Sheffield’s, grade II listed Town Hall.

Sheffield-based developers Aestrom were granted permission to restore the 200-year old building, turning it into 12 apartments, 12 hotel rooms and 11 ‘souk’ style markets which will be open to the public.

Mr Efe Omu of Aestrom, a local Sheffield developer of the Old Town Hall said: ‘I intend to retain the features of the building, including restoration where it is needed.’

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