Leeds Town Hall Grade I Listed

Overview

Leeds Town Hall, a Grade I listed building and one of the UK’s largest town halls, has been a landmark since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1858.

Currently undergoing a £12 million refurbishment, this iconic structure will see new event spaces, enhanced accessibility and extensive refurbishment of its treasured organ.

Mason Clark Associates (MCA) has been appointed to provide services that include civil, structural and conservation engineering, to restore and modernise the building, in order to preserve its legacy for future generations.

Challenges and Solutions

The refurbishment of Leeds Town Hall involves a range of structural and engineering challenges, each requiring innovative solutions to balance historical preservation with modern functionality:

• Enhanced public access and new spaces: we are designing substantial improvements to public accessibility, including a new entrance with a lift and stair core, upgraded bar and café areas and improved circulation spaces. The project also includes plans for a new 270-seat performance space with a floating balcony above the original Victorian gallery, providing flexible options for cultural programming.
• Complex structural modifications: the building’s original structure includes a basement with historic police cells, adding complexity to structural alterations. We conducted detailed research and intrusive investigations to understand the existing conditions fully, ensuring any modifications respect the building’s historical integrity while meeting modern standards.
• Phasing and temporary works: working with the client and contractor, we developed a phased and value-engineered approach to balance affordability with the ambitious vision for the town hall. Temporary works strategies were implemented to maintain structural stability and safety throughout the project.

MCA's Contribution

We are delivering comprehensive engineering services that are integral to the success of this ambitious renovation. Our contributions include:

• Detailed structural design: we have provided essential designs for the new entrance, circulation improvements and performance space balcony, ensuring these elements integrate seamlessly with the historical structure.
• Conservation engineering: our team is dedicated to preserving the historical elements of Leeds Town Hall, conducting meticulous assessments and designing alterations that respect and enhance the building’s heritage.
• Project collaboration and planning: we worked closely with the client and contractor to devise a practical and cost-effective approach, including phased construction plans and temporary support structures.

Results

This much-anticipated refurbishment will transform Leeds Town Hall into a premier cultural venue, enhancing the visitor experience and securing the building’s future as a centrepiece for live music, film screenings and renowned arts events. When it reopens in 2025, the town hall will host events such as the Leeds International Concert Season, Film Festival, Beer Festival and International Piano and Conductors Competitions.

This project underscores our expertise in heritage restoration, structural engineering and innovative design, ensuring Leeds Town Hall remains a vibrant part of the city’s cultural landscape.