Following the recent renovation works the scaffolding has been removed, revealing the transformation of the iconic Grade II* listed Barnstaple Guildhall. The Guildhall was designed by local architect Thomas Lee and built between 1826 and 1828 in a neo-Classical style. Lee’s other buildings include the Wellington Monument in Somerset and Arlington Court.
A popular venue and visitor attraction
The building, which is maintained by Barnstaple Town Council, was a former courthouse and is still used for Council meetings, ceremonial events, such as the recent Fair Proclamation Ceremony, and remains a popular venue and visitor attraction through a varied programme of events and exhibitions.
The project to restore the Guildhall exterior was able to proceed thanks to funding from Historic England via the Repair Grants for Heritage at Risk and the Government’s Future High Street Fund Programme via North Devon District Council.
The last major work on the building, in 2006, was the installation of a lift and other facilities to improve the accessibility of the Guildhall.
“The Guildhall looks splendid. It was wonderful to have it restored to its former glory in time for the Fair Proclamation.”
Maintaining the building's character
The restoration works started in February and being a pre-1919 grade II* listed historic building there were always going to be challenges.
Extensive amounts of the render and three of the pillars had to be replaced, most of the lead to the roof, the cupola housing the bell, stonework to the plinth, window casements, and the clock on the Butcher’s Row elevation had to be carefully renovated.
For this reason, guidance and support from Historic England and the local Conservation Officer Collette Hall meant that we were able to ensure that the character of the building was maintained whilst ensuring that the works will protect it against the ravages of the North Devon weather.
Future maintenance programmes are being developed to ensure that the building is now looked after and kept in what is now the best condition externally that it has been for decades.
