
Councillors are set to approve new investment in The Halls as part of its on-going and extensive refurbishment programme at a cabinet meeting next month.
The Halls, a medieval friary complex dating back to the 14th century, have been undergoing extensive refurbishment and improvement works, however, a recent survey to Blackfriars Hall roof has identified further repairs and investment to ensure its longevity.
It means The Halls are likely to open later this year.
Councillor Claire Kidman, cabinet member for a Prosperous Norwich, said: “We were on target to reopen the beautifully restored building within the next couple of months. But after discovering some pretty major repair work that needed to be done to Blackfriars roof, it means that will now come a bit later in the year.
"So, we will build that into our new programme of work as we need to make sure we get this right and ensure The Halls are properly restored to their former glory and rightful place as one of Norwich and England’s medieval gems.”
The survey revealed that works carried out to the roof approximately 80 to 100 years ago had caused a build of moisture in the timber structure due to a plastic sheeting installed at the time.
It means councillors will be asked to approve repairs and upgrades to the cornices, rafters and bosses in the roof, and some electrical upgrades of around £900,000, from the council’s capital fund to make The Halls fit for public use. In addition to the repairs councillors will be asked to approve a tender exercise, to consider an outside organisation to take over the day-to-day operations of The Halls.
Cllr Kidman added: “Once open, the newly refurbished Halls will be one of the most iconic venues in East England and further bolster the city’s status as one Europe’s most go-to historic and cultural destinations.”
Councillors will discuss the reports at the cabinet meeting on 5 February.
- More articles in the news archive
- Norwich City Council news RSS feed