The £1.3m project to refurbish the old town hall in Whitby, and its historic marketplace, have now been completed with an official re-opening planned within the next few weeks.
Market traders, which had to relocate to Dock End last year to allow for the works will also be moving back in time for the August Bank Holiday Weekend, North Yorkshire Council has confirmed.
The authority says the extensive programme of works has secured the future of the Grade II* listed Old Town Hall and brought it back into public use.
It hadn’t been used since 2017 and the building, which dates back to the 18th century, had deteriorated due to age and weather. Once the original planned restoration works had started, even more hidden damage was uncovered.
Extensive repairs have been made to the clock tower and roof, alongside restoration of stonework and mortar on its façade and columns. The first floor of the Old Town Hall has also been refurbished and modernised, creating a space capable for cultural activities, exhibitions and events throughout the year.
The project has been funded by money awarded to Whitby as part of the Government’s Towns Fund, as well as by North Yorkshire Council (NYC).
An official opening event where councillors, businesses, local groups and the community can look around the newly renovated Old Town Hall is in the process of being organised, with a date to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, local councillors have spoken out about the project, where it was feared if works were not done, the building’s future would have been at risk.
Coun Neil Swannick, for Whitby Streonshalh division on NYC, said: “The Old Town Hall is a much-loved part of Whitby and it’s brilliant to see it restored to such a high standard.
“These improvements not only safeguard such an important part of Whitby’s history, but will also allow residents, community groups and visitors to use the first-floor space which can hopefully attract even more footfall to the town for many years to come.”
Whitby West Division councillor for NYC, Phil Trumper added: “This project was started to ensure the Old Town Hall will still be standing 100 years from now.
“The project team and everyone involved should be very proud of the results of the restoration – the building looks stunning.”
Whitby town councillor Linda Wild, who is a member of the project’s steering group, said she was looking forward to seeing the old town hall re-open now it had been preserved for the future.
Coun Wild said: “It has been a privilege to be involved in the restoration, and I’m very happy and relieved that the long-term future of this important building has been safeguarded for future generations.
“From the outset, it was vital that any works were respectful to the Old Town Hall’s historic character and provided an accessible space that can support the community.”