THERE’S a last chance to take a peek behind the scenes at one of the jewels in Middlesbrough’s crown before it undergoes a major makeover.
The historic Grade II* listed Middlesbrough Town Hall is set to close to the public next month (April) for restoration and redevelopment works.
The £8 million project – funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), Middlesbrough Council and Arts Council England – will see historic parts of the building opened up, including the Victorian courtroom, cells and fire station.
Visitor access will be vastly improved, offering greater insight into the history of the building, while plans also include the restoration of the carriage driveway with original glass roof and the creation of new café and bar facilities.
This month’s tours – on March 16, 20 and 23 – will include the courtroom, carriage driveway, dressing rooms and the Victorian concert hall.
Those joining these unique ‘last chance’ tours will also be offered the opportunity to be among the first to visit the building when it re-opens in 2017.
Cllr Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “The Town Hall is a truly iconic piece of Middlesbrough’s cultural heritage, and one that is rightly treasured by local people.
“These tours are a unique opportunity to have a look behind the scenes before this grand old building undergoes the biggest makeover in its history.”
- Tour Dates
Wednesday, March 16 2pm & 6pm
Sunday, March 20 11am & 2pm
Wednesday, March 23 2pm & 6pm
Tickets are £3 each or four for £10. Please note parts of the tour are not suitable for wheelchair users – contact the box office for further information.
Tours last approximately 90 minutes.
Book tickets via Middlesbrough Town Hall Box Office – 01642 729 729 or online via www.middlesbroughtownhallonline