Hard work is underway to progress bringing the old Town Hall back to life. Since Lowestoft Town Council became the owner in 2017, it has improved the building’s appearance by installing artistic hoardings over the security sheets on the windows and has also undertaken routine repairs and maintenance when needed. It has also been able to open the superb historic council chamber for public events, such as Heritage Open Days.

However, permanent solutions are needed and the Town Council does not have the required significant funds to inject into major regeneration works. Its ambition is to explore all realistic options for the Town Hall’s future and there has already been a tremendous contribution of ideas from the public. The Town Council also needs any solution for the future of the building to pay its way; it is in everybody’s interests, especially the taxpayers, for a viable solution to be found which does not unduly pull on the public purse or harm the environment and which benefits the community.

Over a period of approximately 5 weeks from mid-September, contractors Purcell and MS Oakes will progress identified emergency repairs on the Town Hall, including to the roof and guttering.

These necessary works are totally funded by Historic England and are in partnership with East Suffolk Council and the Heritage Action Zone. Exciting things happen when we work together!

As part of the Heritage Action Zone, Historic England have also commissioned Colliers International Ltd, specialists in looking for practical and economically sustainable solutions for buildings like the Town Hall, to conduct a feasibility study on future options for the Town Hall and land adjacent to it, on behalf of the Town Council and East Suffolk Council. This exciting project will establish the best long term mutually supportive options for their regeneration.

All of the ideas given to us by the public over the last 2 years will be considered and with these experts, the Town Council and partners will put together a vision for the Town Hall and will apply for funding to make it happen. It is not too late for other ideas to be considered and any thoughts should be sent to admin@lowestofttowncouncil.gov.uk.