Manchester Town Hall

Manchester Town Hall, a Grade I listed Gothic Revival masterpiece by Alfred Waterhouse, has stood at the civic heart of the city since 1877. Designed for a triangular island site, its complex plan encloses a central courtyard and the celebrated Great Hall with murals by Ford Madox Brown. Recognised internationally as an exemplar of its type, the building remains both a working town hall and a symbol of Manchester’s identity. Between 2013 and 2016, we served as heritage lead, guiding its ongoing restoration and care.

Client

Manchester City Council

Location

Manchester

Designation

Grade I

Year

2013 – 2016

What we did

As heritage lead within a multi-disciplinary team, we developed a Feasibility Study to identify the works needed to secure the fabric, maintain the building and enhance its use. Detailed condition surveys followed, focusing on external elevations, link bridges, roofs and State Rooms. We prepared a comprehensive Heritage Conservation Management Plan to guide long-term repair and development decisions. We contributed to an inventory of historic furniture in collaboration with a specialist collections curator. Working closely with Historic England, we also devised and implemented a Consultation Strategy to support the procurement of later project phases.

the outcome

Our work established a clear framework for the restoration and future stewardship of Manchester Town Hall. The studies, surveys and conservation planning we undertook have informed ongoing works, ensuring that repair and renewal proceed with understanding and care. The building’s fabric, function and civic presence are preserved for generations to come.

services we provided

Heritage Consultancy

Heritage and significance appraisals

Feasibility and constraint studies

Conservation Management Plans (CMP)

Design guidance for historic buildings

Consultation with heritage bodies and authorities

Architecture and Surveying

Conservation architectural services (RIBA Stages 0–7)

Interior and spatial planning for historic buildings

Condition surveys

Schedules of work and technical specifications

other contributors

Photographer

Ben Dale

Next project:

Walworth Town Hall