On March 3rd 2024, Rochdale town hall was officially reopened following four years of extensive restoration and refurbishment.
The Great Hall, inside Rochdale town hall Photograph: Christopher Thomond/The Guardian
JPS worked with HH Smith & Sons on the £20 million refurbishment of the Grade I listed building. We provided temporary works designs to allow the restoration of the existing structure, the Magna Carta mural and extensive frescoes, with minimal intrusive works to protect this cultural site.
Works also included temporary support of the 60 meter clock tower and extensive roof scaffolding to allow the restoration of the Great hall fleche.
The Grade I-listed building was designed by William H Crossland and originally opened in 1871 to symbolise the town’s rich industrial standing in the textile trade. Its ornate stylings are rivaled only by the Palace of Westminster according to Historic England.
JPS is continuing to support phase 3 of the works. This includes more temporary works to allow for the installation of a new lift and platform lift to the council chambers, along with heritage stage repairs. Meanwhile, the public are free to enjoy the Grade I building which has been fully restored to its former glory.
To find out more about this amazing building and to see more of these incredible photos from inside the newly reopened town hall, here is a link to the Guardian’s full story in photos.