Manchester Town Hall: The Revival of a Gothic Revival Masterpiece

Overview

Step inside the fascinating story of how Manchester’s architectural crown jewel is being transformed for future generations. Our Grade I listed Town Hall, one of Britain’s finest examples of Neo-Gothic architecture, is undergoing an ambitious restoration that blends heritage conservation with 21st-century innovation.

UPDATE – 28/1/25. Due to high demand, we have relocated the event, added capacity and adjusted the start time.

Project Vision and Planning

Technical expert Jamie Coath will uncover the intriguing challenges and creative solutions behind the Our Town Hall Project. We’ll explore how Purcell responded to the Council’s vision, carefully assessing this Victorian masterpiece to determine where changes could enhance its functionality and accessibility, while preserving its historic character. Through extensive consultation with the community, Purcell have shaped a vision that honours both the building’s past and its future role in city life.

Restoration and Engineering

You’ll discover the painstaking work involved in breathing new life into the external stonework, including the reinstatement of long-lost architectural features and the sensitive removal of 1960s additions. We’ll reveal how modern engineering expertise is being applied to replace the vast roof structure while protecting the building’s Gothic character.

Accessibility and Interior Works

One of the restoration team’s most rewarding challenges has been making this civic landmark truly accessible to everyone. Jamie will share how Purcell have thoughtfully integrated new entrances and lifts while respecting the building’s historic fabric. The talk will take you behind the scenes of their most delicate work: the restoration of the building’s magnificent interiors, including the revival of its famous clock and organ.

Public Realm

We’ll also explore how the project extends beyond the building itself, encompassing the restoration of the Albert Memorial and the surrounding public spaces that make this such a vital part of Manchester’s civic heart.

Looking to the Future

Throughout the talk, we’ll reflect on how this ambitious project is meeting its goals of preserving our city’s heritage while creating a more accessible and sustainable building for Manchester’s future.

Join us for an evening of discovery as we explore this remarkable chapter in the life of one of Britain’s most important civic buildings.

Practical Information

The talk includes a Q&A session.

Booking is essential. Lit & Phil members: we recommend logging into the website to make booking your free member ticket quicker and easier.

About the Speaker

Jamie is currently the Technical and Conservation Advisor for Purcell.  His particular technical expertise lies in stonework construction and conservation, and other related issues such as historic paint analysis and metalwork.

Accessibility Information

Please contact us regarding any specific accessibility requirements you may have by emailing events@manlitphil.ac.uk