The hard hats are back…

If you walk along Whiting Street past the Guildhall site you will see that once again there is scaffolding up. This time it covers most of the back roof. The photographs show the 19th Century extension including the lantern over the original council chamber which later became the Second World War Operations Room. The tiles having been removed the supporting structure is being inspected to look for signs of deterioration; inspection so far does give rise for some concern. If repairs are straightforward the work should be complete in the Spring at an estimated cost of about £130,000. If more extensive deterioration is found this would extend the timescale and cost. At present we see this as a significant risk which we are watching closely. This work is fundamental to the rest of the Guildhall Project; without a sound roof other plans cannot go ahead. Our Project Manager and our architects Whitworth are managing this as a discrete project, and Lodge’s with their sub-contractors have the contract. You will recall that they did an excellent job for us on the front roof.