‘It’s your City Hall – come on in” is the message from Norwich City Council as it invites residents to pop in to its headquarters on Wednesday 12 October during Local Democracy Week.
Doors Open to Democracy is an opportunity for people who may walk past the city’s bronze lions every day, or have visited the customer centre, to enjoy its magnificent architectural features and ceremonial rooms.
Opened by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother in 1938, City Hall was built in response to a rise in local government duties and continues to be the main location for democratic activities in the city. Important decisions are made at regular meetings in its Art Deco council chamber.
There will be the chance to meet the Lord Mayor and visit her parlour, which is made from materials including Italian marble, Honduran mahogany and Australian walnut.
City councillors will be available on the first floor for informal discussion about local issues and to answer questions, with council officers also offering information on projects, including housing developments and digital inclusion.
As well as light refreshments, there will also be the opportunity to sign up to the electoral register for those who have not had the chance to do so already.
Lord Mayor, Cllr Marion Maxwell, said: “City Hall is the central setting of democracy in Norwich and it is vital that residents know they are welcome to come into the council and take part in the democratic process.
“I hope residents will use this opportunity to pop in and familiarise themselves with the building, find out more about council services, and even come back to attend a council or committee meeting.”
The session will run from 12.30pm until 2.30pm.
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