Leeds Town Hall Grade I Listed

Overview

Leeds Town Hall is a Grade I listed building that was opened in 1858 by Queen Victoria on one of her only visits to the city. It is one of the largest town halls in the UK and currently stands as the eighth tallest building in Leeds. The building is undergoing a £12 million refurbishment to preserve it for future generations to come. The work includes creating exciting new events spaces and facilities, improvements to accessibility, and extensive refurbishment of its much-loved organ.

Tasks / challenges

Mason Clark Associates (MCA) are providing civil, structural and conservation engineer design services for the project which involves significant improvements to public access with a new entrance lift/stair core, new bar/café areas, with enhanced facilities and circulation areas. We also designed a new projecting balcony, designed to float over the original Victorian public gallery as part of a new 270-seater performance space, located in the former Court Room. This element may be brought into the project should funding become available.

Activity

The design has required detailed research, with careful intrusive investigations and assessment of the complex existing structure which bears over a basement with historic police cells still intact. We have had to develop phasing and temporary works strategies, and work with the client and contractor to develop an affordable and value-engineered scheme.

Results

This long overdue project will have a transformative impact on the city's most iconic and best-loved building and will provide a first-class visitor experience when the venue re-opens in 2025. It will host the best live music, comedy and film screenings, together with many of the city’s renowned arts and cultural events, including Leeds International Concert Season, Leeds International Film Festival, Leeds International Beer Festival, Leeds International Piano Competition, and Leeds Conductors Competition.