Christchurch’s former town hall on High Street has been restored to former glory

CHRISTCHURCH’S former town hall has been officially reopened after a “meticulous” restoration.

The landmark building on High Street has been brought back to its former glory.

Acting town council clerk James Atkinson says it was a “huge undertaking” and was the council’s largest project to date.

He said: “The remedial work and restoration of the old town hall was a huge undertaking that I am proud to have achieved under the town.

“To date, this is the largest project it has worked on since its inception in 2019 following the local government reorganisation.

“The last full-scale renovation of the old town hall took place in the 1980s and the council is excited to secure the quality of the building for future use.”

Craftsmen from Elcock Associates and Greendale Construction Limited carried out the work which started in September last year.

The restoration covered the external stonework, building repairs, roofing work, and lead restoration on the top elevation.

Internally, the hall underwent a comprehensive refurbishment, featuring new bathrooms, kitchen facilities, carpets and decoration.

Designated as a Grade II listed building in 1976, the council said this “cultural gem stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and architectural legacy”.

The hall will now “serve as a vibrant hub for the community, hosting civic events, charity functions, and cultural gatherings“, it added.