Town hall's roof to be repaired over eight months

A large portion of Colchester Town Hall's roof is due to be repaired during an eight-month restoration project.

Work to install scaffolding would begin in the coming days and would continue throughout autumn, the city council said.

About 60% of the roof - which surveys found was deteriorating - would then be repaired and restored between January and June.

Conservative cabinet member William Sunnucks said the town hall was "one of the city's most iconic and significant" buildings.

While the current High Street building opened in 1902, the site has been a town hall since 1160, when a building called the Moot Hall was there.

Within the current building is a newer Moot Hall which is used for meetings and functions and it has recently had refurbishment work completed.

Specialists found the roof of the Town Hall needed urgent repairs to prevent more serious issues in the future.

The roof will receive new coverings, including replacement tiles and leadwork, while other minor internal repairs and redecoration are planned.

Scaffolding would be removed towards the end of the project in summer 2027, said the council, which is run by a Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition.

"These essential conservation works will help protect the building from further deterioration, preserve its historic character and ensure it continues to provide a safe and welcoming place," Sunnucks said.

The town hall is used for council meetings, as well as providing a venue for weddings and civic events.

It will remain open throughout the works.

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