Town hall's £1m refurbishment nears completion

The £1m redevelopment of Todmorden's Grade I listed town hall is nearing completion, Calderdale Council has said.

The 19th Century building, which is owned and managed by the local authority, has undergone refurbishment as part of the previous government's Town Deal project to revitalise town centres.

Work has included renovations to the main hall, with a new bar created using materials repurposed from the court room.

Pam Warhurst, who chairs the Todmorden Town Deal board, said: "Thanks to the Town Deal, this wonderful building is more sustainable and has a secure future offering spaces and facilities that are attractive, more accessible and fit for purpose."

Other improvements to the building on Bridge Street, which opened in 1875, include reopening its rear entrance, which features a Victorian lobby, and making it fully accessible for the first time.

Further works have seen alterations to the former courtroom, including new flooring, to create more open space while retaining its historic features.

The ground floor has been redecorated and toilet facilities on the ground floor and under the stage have been improved.

A council spokesperson said the finishing touches were now being applied, which include refurbishing the building's external doors.

Keith Ingle, Calderdale Council's cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: "The improvement works will enable the venue to be used in different ways, from large scale events or parties in the magnificent ballroom, to smaller community gatherings.

"The work will support the future of this important building, and also make the most of its history, with the improvements balancing modern facilities with heritage preservation."

Todmorden was awarded £17.5m as part of the Towns Deal, which has funded improvements to Bramsche Square, Centre Vale Park, the Hippodrome Theatre and Tod College, as well as a new enterprise centre with 23 business units.

Improvements to walking and cycling routes in the town centre are also planned.

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