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Architects appointed for town hall restoration

Geograph/Dave Pickersgill The outside of Sheffield Town Hall viewed from the entrance to the Peace Gardens, which features two fountains on either side of the staircase. The building was designed in a Gothic Victorian style with a clock tower, turrets and large arched windows.Geograph/Dave Pickersgill
Sheffield Town Hall needs extensive repairs and renovation

The restoration of a historic town hall has moved a step closer with the appointment of an architectural design firm.

Sheffield Town Hall, one of only two Grade I listed buildings in the city centre, is set to undergo major refurbishment to secure its long-term future, the city council said.

The building, which was opened by Queen Victoria in 1897, is currently used for council meetings, civic events, sporting celebrations and weddings.

On Tuesday, it was announced Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, which is behind Grade II listed Leah's Yard, would lead the restoration project and "breathe new life" into the building.

In 2022, urgent work had to be carried out after a council report found serious risks including fire safety, Legionella from water supplies, no ventilation in the council chamber and leaks from an old large diesel tank.

According to the council, the restoration plan would address key issues such as accessibility, fire safety, structural repairs and the preservation of historical features.

Sheffield City Council The Lord Mayor's Parlour is a grand room with dark wood-panelled walls, a carpet with a leaf design, very tall arched windows, a huge marble fireplace and an ornate ceiling. There is a selection of armchairs and a sofa around the fire place. On the walls are large antique paintings in gold frames of individual people and the ceiling has chandeliers.Sheffield City Council
The Lord Mayor's Parlour inside Sheffield Town Hall

The firm chosen to lead the project is known for schemes such as the transformation of the Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings and Brighton Dome Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre.

Council leader Tom Hunt said he was delighted the project was moving forward so that the town hall could "continue to serve everyone" and be a "modern, accessible workplace".

He said: "Our iconic and historic town hall is at the heart of Sheffield's democracy and public life.

"From weddings to citizenship ceremonies, council meetings and elections, this special building has a unique place in the lives of Sheffield residents."

Sheffield City Council A grand, sweeping marble staircase leads from the front entrance of the town hall upstairs to the council chamber. It has a red carpet running down the middle, with marble banisters. There are ornate marble arches in the town hall foyer and tall ceilings.Sheffield City Council
The main staircase in Sheffield Town Hall, leading to the council chamber

Geoff Rich, partner and director of heritage and creative reuse at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, said the firm felt "hugely honoured" to have been appointed.

He said: "The project represents an exciting opportunity to complement the building's unique heritage with inclusive and sustainable design, and to ensure the town hall meets the future needs of Sheffield's communities."

An initial feasibility study in 2022 outlined potential restoration costs and safety works could range from £20m to £50m.

The council said it aimed to secure funding through "innovative strategies", balancing the needs of heritage preservation with financial sustainability.

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